From celebrity book clubs to must-have bookshop totes, the fashion world is currently having a literary moment.
Now, for the first time ever, Valentino has announced that it will sponsor the International Booker Prize 2024 ceremony.
The Booker Prize is as synonymous with writing as the Oscars are with film and the Grammys are with music. For over half a century, the International Booker Prize has been recognised as the most respected guide to the world’s best fiction.
It’s not the first time Valentino has made forays into the literary world, having previously worked with many authors nominated for the Booker Prizes, including Hanya Yanagihara, Leila Mottley, Elif Shafak and Mieko Kawakami.
This year’s ceremony will be held on the 21st of May in London. Discussing the new partnership, Gaby Wood, the Chief Executive of the Booker Prize Foundation said “We couldn’t be more excited to be embarking on such a meaningful collaboration with Valentino, and are hugely grateful for their support. Together, these two longstanding institutions will bring together imaginations without borders. The Valentino team’s energy and enthusiasm are inspiring, as is everything they’ve already done for, and with, great writers. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed discussing books with them – and discovering our shared love of many International Booker authors has been a particular thrill.”
The sponsorship by Valentino will also enable the donation of 500 sets of the International Booker Prize shortlist to libraries across the UK. Following the announcement, Jacopo Venturini, the CEO of Maison Valentino said “We are honoured to partner with the Booker Prize Foundation this year. This collaboration further strengthens our deep connection to the world of literature.”
The livestream of the International Booker Prize ceremony will hosted by YouTuber Jack Edwards, known as ‘the internet’s resident librarian’, and available on The Booker Prize’s YouTube channel.
Image credit: Valentino Eyewear x Akoni Group
