Last week Danier and the Ryerson School of Fashion announced the 2012 Danier Design Challenge winner. I was lucky enough to be in the room for the intimate awards ceremony, surrounded by excited fashion students, industry giants and blogger friends. Ryerson is one of the best fashion undergraduate schools in the world so it was really exiting to see the work of their top talent before they graduate and join the ranks of famous alumni, like Jeremy Laing.
For the past four years, the Danier Design Challenge gives 3rd year students the opportunity to create an original women’s leather garment that incorporates mentoring from industry experts as well as instruction specific to leather design and fashion. Applications begin with 30 sketch video entries, narrowed down by esteemed industry judges to the top 11 finalists whose creative visions are translated into reality. I really enjoyed watching some of the videos during the event, you can view them HERE.
The top 11 finalists presented their designs to a packed room and immediately my blogger friends and I were coveting their designs! Danier CEO, Jeffrey Wortsman, was on hand to present the awards to this year’s top winners – admitting that they had a tough time choosing! Hence it came as no surprise when they announced a three-way tie for third place, with contestants Amy Tahmizian, Diana Li and Kamra Khalid each receiving $2000. The second place prize was given to design student Som Kong who was awarded $3000.
The top spot and a $5000 cash prize was awarded to Ostwald Au-Yeung for his innovative and avant-garde design. I actually gasped when I saw this jacket – with so many intricate details, it was obvious that a lot of hard work and passion went into it. In addition to the amazing cash prizes, these students walk away with an incredible badge of honour and a relationship with Danier, including internships. The best part? The grand prize winner will see his jacket showcased online as well as in select Danier stores this fall. It’s a fashion student’s dream come true!
Kudos to Danier for getting involved with fashion students in such an inspiring way. It really made me smile to experience the sheer joy and excitement in the room – these stars are shining bright and it’s just the beginning. Watch out for these emerging designers on the Canadian fashion scene and check out Ostwald’s coat at Danier this fall!
Congrats to all of the winners and finalists! Click here for more information about the Danier Design Challenge.
Event Photo Credits: Sonia Recchia/Pimentel Photo
Special thanks to Brill Communications
What a great challenge! Sounds like it was a fabulous night!
Kate xo petite-adventures.blogspot.ca