The Sangue Novo ‘Supported by Seaside’ competition has revealed its five talented finalists: Adja Baio, Ariana Orrico, Mafalda Simões, Mariana Garcia, and Usual Suspect by Xavier Silva. This initiative aims to spotlight emerging designers, showcasing innovative takes on contemporary fashion.
Adja Baio, hailing from Guinea-Bissau, holds a degree in Fashion Design from ESAD. Her work is known for its genderless garments that blend inspirations from her Guinean heritage, streetwear, and a maximalist approach. This distinctive style emphasizes individuality and cultural influences.
Ariana Orrico, who was born in Lisbon to Cape Verdean parents, is recognized for her experimental approach to fashion. Describing herself as an explorer of materials and manual techniques, she combines art and fashion in compelling ways. She has an impressive academic background, with degrees from António Arroio Art School and the University of Lisbon’s Faculty of Architecture, complemented by a master’s degree in Fashion Design.
Mafalda Simões stands out with her commitment to artisanal techniques and innovative manual processes. She completed an internship with acclaimed designer Constança Entrudo and recently took home the Fashion Design award at the 2023 National Young Creators Exhibition for her collective project ‘Entulho’. Currently, she holds a Fashion Design degree from FAUL and is pursuing further studies at the master’s level.
From Vila Nova de Famalicão, Mariana Garcia is an ESAD graduate who has interned with Susana Bettencourt. Her work emphasizes the interplay between body movement and clothing, creating pieces that merge functionality with elegance. Mariana gained recognition in 2019, winning the ‘My Project Is Entrepreneurial’ competition for her innovative transformable clothing collection titled ‘Mutante’.
Xavier Silva, the creative mind behind Usual Suspect, emphasizes sustainability and innovation in his unique designs. A recnt graduate from ESAD, his collection ‘O Último Desempregado’ illustrates a thoughtful narrative concerning contemporary issues, including the plight of recent war refugees.
The finalists will now embark on developing new collections for the final leg of the Sangue Novo competition, scheduled for March 2026. During this phase, they will participate in mentoring sessions with industry experts and receive essential resources, including press office and showroom services offered by Showpress communications agency.
In March 2026, these emerging designers will vie for prestigious awards, including the ModaLisboa X IED – Istituto Europeo di Design and ModaLisboa X Burel Factory awards, marking a significant milestone in their fashion careers.
