Leather and Hide Council of America opens entries for Real Leather. Stay Different. 2026 in Brazil, inviting fashion students to create with sustainable leather.
The global design competition arrives in the country, connecting Brazilian talents to an international network of innovation and slow fashion.
Competition highlights creativity and sustainability
The Leather and Hide Council of America (LHCA), a U.S. nonprofit, announces entries for the sixth global edition of Real Leather. Stay Different. (RLSD).
Fashion and design students can register from January 12 to March 31, 2026. Visit the platform at https://chooserealleather.com/competition/brazil-2026/ and select Brazil Region.
The contest emphasizes sustainability of leather as a noble, versatile, natural material. It has launched creators at brands like Christian Louboutin, Dior, and Louis Vuitton.
Participants craft original pieces with at least 50% leather, blending commercial viability and purposeful design.
Categories cover apparel, footwear, and accessories, plus the online People’s Choice Award.
CICB support and prizes for finalists
The CICB (Brazilian Tanners Industries Center) provides institutional support. Finalists get free leather from associated tanneries to build their projects.
Category winners receive trophies and certificates. The overall winner gets an all-expenses-paid trip to the international final, representing Brazil.
Past editions spanned China and India. The 2025 international final took place in Taipei, Taiwan.
LHCA will soon reveal the Brazilian jury and competition timeline.
