Emerging fashion makers are invited to apply for an eight-month, fully funded residential programme starting in January 2026, designed to nurture the next generation of makers committed to the sustainable evolution of luxury.

Based at Dumfries House in East Ayrshire, Scotland, the fellowship offers a rare chance to learn from world-class artisans and tutors at The King’s Foundation, with mentorship from CHANEL and le19M, the Paris-based centre dedicated to preserving and passing on Métiers d’art craftsmanship.

Applications close at 1pm on Tuesday 18 November 2025.

Who should apply

Applications are invited from recent graduates (within the last three years) holding degree-level qualifications in:

• Fashion design
• Fashion technology
• Tailoring or pattern cutting

Candidates should have excellent technical sewing skills, a clear understanding of how to translate 2D design into 3D form, and the ambition to build a career in luxury garment making.

What fellows will gain

Successful applicants will:

• Master advanced production techniques through intensive studio practice
• Gain experience in collaborative small-run production
• Receive mentoring from leading luxury professionals
• Build a portfolio and professional profile ready for industry
• Create both a capsule collection and an individual showcase piece to luxury standards

All participants receive a bursary to support their cost of living for the duration of the programme.

Programme overview

The fellowship runs for eight months and is structured into three stages, combining technical mastery, creative exploration and professional development:

• Stage 1: Design and Technical Development (12 weeks)
  Focus on pattern drafting, sewing, handcrafting, and sustainable design practice.
• Stage 2: Collection Production (12 weeks)
  Develop and produce a capsule collection through teamwork and mentorship.
• Stage 3: Exploration and Consolidation (11 weeks)
  Refine individual creative direction and prepare for final presentation.
• Fellows will respond to a design brief inspired by the relationship between luxury and the natural world, exploring how traditional craftsmanship informs modern fashion.

Location and accommodation

The programme is residential, based at The King’s Foundation headquarters at Dumfries House. Participants must relocate to Scotland for the duration of the fellowship. While fellows arrange their own accommodation, The King’s Foundation will provide guidance and support in the search. Dumfries House is roughly 30 minutes from Ayr or Kilmarnock and around an hour from Glasgow.

How to apply

There are full details on the link below and applicants must submit:

• Digital application form (available via The King’s Foundation website)
• Two-minute video introduction (submitted via WeTransfer)
• Short written submission on luxury craftsmanship
• Digital portfolio of up to 15 pages showing inspiration, process, and technical skill

Selected applicants will be invited to interview at Dumfries House between 1–3 December 2025.

Find out more and apply