A stellar judging panel spanning IMG Fashion, Vogue Australia and My-wardrobe.com, will soon select one of Australia's most inspiring emerging designers as part of a national event.
The BT Emerging Fashion Designers Award, sponsored by BT, was launched in November in partnership with the Council of Textile and Fashion Industries of Australia (TFIA) and will soon crown its first winner in March.
The three fashion labels selected as finalists for the award will participate in a charity runway show on March 14, 2013 at The Australian Technology Park, Sydney; cutting their teeth alongside some of Australia’s most iconic fashion designers.
The judging panel will be made up of My-wardrobe.com head Madeleine Allman, IMG Fashion director, strategy and brand development Elle Persson, and Vogue Australia editor Edwina McCann.
The event is expected to see more than 400 people attend, with the winner of the inaugural award to receive a cheque on the night for $10,000.
Commenting on the award, We Are Handsome co-founder and director Jeremy Somers said it is a golden opportunity for talented designers.
“Not only does winning an award like this come with prizes and prestige, but it's fantastic to know that there are companies like BT out there who truly want to assist emerging designers in growing their businesses,” he said.
BT Financial Group CEO, Brad Cooper added that it is important for business to continue supporting Australian talent.
“BT is proud to be supporting this initiative and helping unearth emerging talent. The BT Emerging Fashion Designers Award will help young designers come through the ranks, which is crucial to the sustainability of the local industry”
Applications for the award opened November 16, 2012. Australian fashion designers established less than seven years, with a turnover under $2 million are eligible to compete for the inaugural Award, and can enter by completing the application form here.
Applications close February 4, 2013. Successful finalists should expect to be informed no later than the end February 2013.