Haulier founder and designer Jeremy Hershan has won the National Designer Award presented by David Jones, taking home a prize pool of $130,000.
Haulier operates a clothing store in Paddington, Sydney, as well as an online site.
The National Designer Award ceremony was presented at PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival this week.
Jordan Gogos of Iordanes Spyridon Gogos was awarded the Honourable Mention for Sustainability, receiving a cash prize of $10,000 and mentorship from David Jones’ sustainability and broader business team.
Natasha Gordon of CLEA took out the People’s Choice Award.
Now in its 28th year, the PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival National Designer Award recognises the future of Australian fashion by acknowledging designers in their formative years of business.
Hershan, Gogos and Gordon joined three other finalists for the competition this year, Alix Higgins, Ikuntji Artists and THDR.
“The National Designer Award is Australia’s longest running and most esteemed fashion award, defining the future of many Australian designers,” PMFF CEO Caroline Ralphsmith said. “It’s an honour to meet these talented designers so early on in their journey and create what we are sure will be powerful and long-term relationships as they continue to shape our fabulous industry.
“Jeremy Hershan of Haulier’s clear vision, considered design and sophisticated approach to brand and business really stood out, and Jordan Gogos of Iordanes Spyridon Gogos’ dedication to reducing environmental impact through his manufacturing process is commendable.
“Congratulations to our winners. We look forward to watching the trajectory of their brands for many years to come."
David Jones GM of menswear, kids, home, AV and food, Chris Wilson, said it is an honur to support the next generation of Australian designers.
“David Jones has witnessed the rise of numerous acclaimed Australian designers, including Dion Lee, COMMAS, ESSE and Maticevski, be the recipients of the nation’s most prestigious fashion accolades and are thrilled to announce Jeremy Hershan of Haulier as this year’s winner.
“We look forward to supporting the brand, its growth and development, to ensure its enduring success and impact on the Australian fashion landscape.”
Speaking on the Honourable Mention for Sustainability award, sustainable fashion expert, writer and consultant Lucianne Tonti said the fashion industry is at a crucial turning point.
“Urgency breeds ingenuity,” Tonti said, “and what Jordan Gogos has consistently shown through his label Iordanes Spyridon Gogos, is a willingness to think differently and embrace the core principles that can make fashion sustainable: investing in local manufacturing while working with waste and quality natural materials to produce truly beautiful, durable products."
The 2024 judging panel included Ralphsmith, Wilson, and Tonti, alongside, David Jones GM of womenswear, footwear and accessories Bridget Veals, Alèmais founder Lesleigh Jermanus, Sydney Morning Herald and The Age style editor Damien Woolnough, and Ngali founder Denni Francisco.
Hershan joined a list of past winners of the National Designer Award including Best Jumpers (2023), Christian Kimber (2019) and Dion Lee (2010).