Australian milliner sparkles in US

BRISBANE: Queensland milliner Ann Maree Willett has set a new international record.

The former Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE student has been named as the first ever Australian finalist in the 2007 Swarovski Elements Design Awards.

One of 20 finalists worldwide, Willett designed and manufactured a headpiece featuring a Swarovski encrusted Red Back Spider.

"I was on holidays and was mesmerised by the sight of a magnificent red back spider sitting as a centrepiece in its intricate web," she said. "It was sparkling in the first ray of the desert sun and became my inspiration."

The accolade follows a successful year for Willet, who was signed on to European fashion house Borsalini after showcasing her collection at the 2007 Melbourne Spring Fashion Week.

"They have a positive impression of Australian designers and were obviously very impressed by my collection," she said.

The Swarovski Elements Design Contest 2007 will be held at the Tuscon Bead and Gem Show in Arizona with winners announced on February 6, 2008.