PARIS: The R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge (CDC), a global initiative by R|Elan™, the United Nations in India, and Lakmé Fashion Week, held its European Jury in Paris, bringing together leading figures from the global fashion and sustainability sectors to celebrate innovation in circular fashion.
Hosted at Le Meurice on the eve of Paris Haute Couture Week, the event was organised in collaboration with the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM) and the Embassy of France in India as part of the India–France Year of Innovation 2026.
Following presentations by six emerging fashion labels from across Europe, the distinguished jury selected Yoshita 1967, founded by Anil Padia, as the European Finalist for the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge 2026.
The France-based label was recognised for its people-centric approach to circular fashion, combining artisan-led production, handmade craftsmanship and cross-cultural collaboration across Paris, Nairobi and Delhi while promoting sustainability and preserving traditional crafts.
Speaking on the occasion, Rakesh Bali, Senior Vice President – PetChem, Reliance Industries Limited, congratulated the winner, saying the selection reflects the Challenge’s vision of using circularity as a catalyst for creativity while nurturing emerging talent in sustainable fashion.
Expressing his gratitude, Anil Padia said the recognition reinforces his belief that circularity will play a defining role in the future of fashion and added that he looks forward to representing Europe at the Grand Jury in India later this year.
The European Jury featured prominent fashion and sustainability experts, including representatives from Fondation Hermès, Fondazione Sozzani, FHCM, Kering, Marie Claire France, and ASVOF.
Following the Paris event, the Challenge will continue with regional juries in the United Kingdom (July 9), Asia Pacific (July 24) and India (July 28). Regional finalists will compete at the Grand Jury at the United Nations Headquarters in New Delhi, with the winners to be announced during Lakmé Fashion Week x FDCI in October.
The initiative aims to build a global community of designers advancing responsible design, material innovation and the future of circular fashion.
