It’s officially award season.
While we’re waiting with baited breath to see our favourite A-listers step out in phenomenal creations that dazzle and delight, a little closer to home our very own style scene is stepping up to bat.
One of Australia’s most pre-eminent awards, the National Designer Award, is officially back and is set to offer six emerging designers a highly coveted prize package including the chance to win a record high $130,000 and the opportunity to create an exclusive capsule collection for David Jones.
As part of the country’s largest consumer facing fashion event, Melbourne Fashion Festival, the award program celebrates and honours the future stewards of Australian fashion.
This year, nominees range from tailored essentials to effortless womenswear and cult classics.
The top finalists include contemporary ready-to-wear brand Alemais, luxury womenswear label Beare Park, viral vintage-inspired line Blanca along with Clea, E Nolan and sustainable stalwart Joslin.
While these brands are in their infancy, they’ve already displayed a superlative amount of skill.
In fact, Alemais is one of the featured designers showcased in marie claire’s runway show during Melbourne Festival Festival.
Hosted in Federation Square, Alemais will be presented alongside leading labels including Aje, bassike and Lee Mathews.
Tickets for the marie claire show are available to purchase here, with every guest walking home with a gift bag valued at $100 featuring products from beauty leaders ELEVEN Australia and Lancôme.
While the winner of the National Designer Awards won’t be announced during the festival–the actual ceremony will take place during the Fashion Summit Program in July–you’ll be able to have your say on who should take home an award with the introduction of the People’s Choice Award.
David Jones General Manager for Womenswear, Footwear and Accessories, Bridget Veals explains the winner will be recognised for their “creative design, innovation, high-quality manufacturing standards, unique styling.”
With past recipients including Dion Lee, COMMAS and P.E Nation, there’s no doubt this industry accolade has the capacity to fast track the winner’s career and elevate their labels to a global scale.
To explore all the finalists and cast your vote for the National Designer Award, head here for further information.
