Marie Adam-Leenaerdt becomes the second Belgian in a row to be awarded one of the most prestigious prizes in the fashion world.
The Grand Prix d’ANDAM 2026 has been awarded to a Belgian graduate of the La Cambre school. The candidates were weighed against each other on creative judgment and development potential, and the young Belgian is now being blessed with a major push forward. She has received 300,000 euros and will benefit from a year-long mentorship with Alexandre Mattiussi, a French designer who has worked with Dior Homme, Givenchy, and Marc Jacobs, and now owns his own fashion brand.
The Belgian launched her own label in 2023 and competed in ANDAM shortly thereafter, coming back now with more confidence and experience, successfully taking over the baton from her compatriot Meryll Rogge, who studied at the Antwerp school.
And so it comes to be that both major Belgian fashion academies are well-represented in one of the most important recognitions in the industry, proving once again both schools’ worth on the international scene. Our country’s fashion encompasses far more than the Antwerp Six and the future is bright for the young creative minds who follow in their footsteps.
