IMG has unveiled the finalists for the prestigious 2021 Australian Fashion Laureate, an event that pays tribute to the accomplishments of leaders and innovators in the Australian fashion industry. The awards encompass a range of categories, including Designer of the Year, Emerging Designer of the Year, Sustainable Innovation, and People’s Choice.
The Designer of the Year category features esteemed nominees such as Anna Plunket and Luke Sales from Romance Was Born, Christopher Esber, Edwina Forest and Adrian Norris from Aje, and Sophie Holt from Oroton. These designers have left an indelible mark on the Australian fashion scene, receiving recognition for their creative prowess and distinct aesthetics.
In the Emerging Designer of the Year category, Jordan Dalah and Jordan Gogos from Iordanes Spyridon Gogos, Julie Shaw from Maara Collective, and Richard Jarman from Commas will compete for the coveted award. These emerging talents have captivated the industry with their fresh perspectives and innovative designs, showing great promise for their future careers.
Sustainable fashion is a crucial aspect of the industry, and the nominees for the Sustainable Innovation of the Year award have showcased remarkable dedication to ethical and eco-friendly practices. Emma Jarman and Richard Jarman from Commas, James Bartle from Outland Denim, Kit Willow from Kitx, and Mary-Lou Ryan and Deborah Sams from Bassike have all been acknowledged for their efforts in promoting sustainability within the fashion industry.
Furthermore, indigenous designers have been acknowledged for their unique contributions. Denni Francisco from Ngali, Grace Lillian Lee, Julie Shaw from Maara Collective, and Lillardia Briggs-Houston from Ngarru Miimi have been nominated for the Indigenous Designer of the Year award. These designers draw inspiration from their rich cultural heritage, infusing it into their contemporary designs and creating a beautiful fusion of tradition and modernity.
Natalie Xenita, Vice President-Managing Director of IMG’s fashion events and properties, Asia-Pacific, expressed her enthusiasm about this year’s nominees, saying, “The Australian Fashion Laureate celebrates the ingenuity of Australian fashion’s top designers and creators. This year’s nominees reflect the creative excellence and diverse voices shaping our industry and its future.”
The Australian Fashion Laureate recipients will be chosen by the Australian Fashion Industry Alumni, a panel composed of industry leaders, including media representatives, buyers, communications professionals, creative individuals, and designers. This ensures that the winners are selected by a knowledgeable and experienced group, upholding the highest standards of excellence in the industry.
Additionally, the People’s Choice Award offers the public a chance to participate by voting for their favorite Australian fashion designers from the list of finalists curated by IMG and Afterpay. Voting is currently open and will remain so until November 7, 2021. The winners of the Australian Fashion Laureate will be announced at a celebratory event in Sydney on November 30, 2021.
This year’s Australian Fashion Laureate promises to be a momentous celebration of the talent, innovation, and creativity that the Australian fashion industry has to offer. It is an opportunity to acknowledge and honor the remarkable achievements of these designers and their invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the industry.
Useful links:
– Romance Was Born
– Kitx
