Ten finalists from the US, UK, Germany, India and Greater China participated in virtual events, impressing judges with entries that offered climate positive apparel through zero-waste patterns, prolonged garment lifecycles, end-of-life disassembly, upcycling and minimal washing needs.

Sean Cady, VF’s vice-president of sustainability and responsibility, who served as one of the judges, said: “Sustainable fashion and circular design align with our purpose of bettering both people and the planet. Watching our global teams embrace this sustainability competition and mentor the next generation of designers is incredibly rewarding.”

Jessica Chang (pictured) impressed the judges with her collection which incorporated waste materials. She said: “Winning this chance to work with Timberland is a life-changer. Entering this complex industry as an emerging designer is daunting because, so often, everywhere we look we see bad news and complexity. We know we can bring change. Yet it is hard to magnify our big ideas as start-up designers. The Redress Design Award has given me confidence - we are all in this together to make a positive change!”