• INSTITUTION, a brand founded in Italy, has been named the winner of the Zalando Visionary Award 2026, a distinction that recognises its social-artistic approach, active community engagement, and long-term commitment to supporting and reviving artisanal crafts in decline within the fashion industry.
• During Copenhagen Fashion Week in August, INSTITUTION will present its SS27 collection on the runway, with support from Zalando in the form of mentorship, casting, and financial backing for the production of the show.
• Through this initiative, the Zalando Visionary Award reaffirms its commitment to supporting a new generation of designers who actively redefine industry standards and contribute to meaningful progress within the fashion landscape.

BERLIN, 29 JANUARY 2026 // Zalando is pleased to announce INSTITUTION as the winner of the Zalando Visionary Award 2026  a brand that operates as a social-artistic organisation, built on a strong ethical foundation. Founded in Italy by Galib Gassanoff, INSTITUTION is deeply rooted in the designer’s Azerbaijani heritage. The brand transcends the boundaries of fashion through a craft-centred approach, reinterpreting traditional methods, using natural materials, and engaging with communities in order to create social impact and support endangered artisanal practices.

The three finalists of the 2026 edition – INSTITUTION, KYLE HO, and Milk of Lime  were selected by an international jury of industry experts. They were chosen for their bold, forward-looking approaches, clarity of creative vision, and their ability to push the boundaries of creativity and social impact within their respective communities.

Now in its fourth edition, the Zalando Visionary Award continues to celebrate excellence in design, innovation, and social impact. Aligned with the sustainability requirements of Copenhagen Fashion Week, the award underscores Zalando’s commitment to driving positive change within the industry.

As part of Copenhagen Fashion Week AW26 [28 January 2026], an exhibition dedicated to the finalists showcased key pieces from each brand in a curated selection of three designs, reflecting the unique aesthetic and vision of each. Giuliano Calza, mentor to the brands, moderated a panel discussion on culture and the future of fashion, offering in-depth insights into the inspirations behind each brand. Following the showcase, the Zalando Visionary Award jury announced INSTITUTION as the winner during a celebratory dinner.

The jury’s consensus highlighted the clarity of vision and the high level of refinement in INSTITUTION’s execution. Galib Gassanoff’s global perspective is reflected in remarkable creations that integrate influences from diverse cultural contexts, aligning perfectly with the award’s mission to open new spaces for emerging designers and introduce fresh perspectives into the fashion industry.

Sara Spännar, jury member and VP Brand & Creative at Zalando, commented:
“I am delighted to congratulate INSTITUTION on winning the Zalando Visionary Award. Galib’s determination to place craftsmanship at the heart of his creative process, alongside the way he integrates cultural experiences into his work, was a decisive factor. On behalf of the Zalando team, we look forward to seeing how INSTITUTION continues its journey towards a more inclusive and innovative industry.”

Galib Gassanoff, founder of INSTITUTION, shared:
“My wish is for my brand to reach people around the world, and I am grateful every time this project is recognised as meaningful. I would like to thank everyone who has supported my vision from the very beginning and helped build it to where it is today.”

INSTITUTION will present its SS27 collection in a runway show during the August edition of Copenhagen Fashion Week, with support from Zalando and casting director Emma Matell. The brand will also receive mentorship from jury member, creative director, and cultural advocate Edward Buchanan, along with a financial award of €50,000, plus an additional €35,000 allocated to the production of the show.