Mishra bags Woolmark Prize

Designer Rahul Mishra is the winner of the 2013-’14 ‘International Woolmark Prize’ (IWP). He was declared the winner at final awards event held at the Triennale Museum, Milan. Mishra’s Merino wool collection was based on craftsmanship and incredible knowledge of techniques and embroidery.

Apart from the recognition, the winner receives a financial award of 100,000 Australian dollars (Rs 55, 00, 000) and the opportunity to be stocked with top retailers around the globe including Harvey Nichols, Saks Fifth Avenue, 10 Corso Como, Joyce, David Jones, Colette and mytheresa.com. The collection will be available in partner retailers globally from August 2014.

A judging panel including Frida Giannini, Franca Sozzani, Tim Blanks, Colette Garnsey, Angelica Cheung, Alexa Chung and representatives from the global IWP retail partners, selected Mishra who was representing India and the Middle East. After a global search, across 20 countries and involving over 48 designers, five talents reached the final round.

“For me, Rahul has won because of his ability to apply his knowledge of embroideries through wool, one of the most versatile fibres with originality in an unexpected way,” explained Frida Giannini, Gucci’s Creative Director soon after the announcement. “His interpretation was so delicate and beautiful,” said Alexa Chung, adding, “I was really moved by Rahul's story. I believe he is well deserving of this award.”

An elated Mishra added, “I feel like this is a dream and this is giving me new hopes for my future career. This award will change the perception of global fashion in regards to Indian fashion and this is all because wool - an amazing fibre, the fibre of possibilities.” The nominees for the 2014/15 IWP regional competition will be announced in April 2014.