Innovative designs graced the catwalk at the sixth-annual Newmarket Young Fashion Designer Awards this year, with two budding young designers receiving supreme awards with opportunities’ to kick-start their careers in fashion.
Taking out the top spot as the Supreme Senior Winner with her black and gold evening gown inspired by iconic 1920’s designer Schiaparelli was 19 year-old Jessica Jay from Wanaka.
Ecstatic with the win, the retail assistant can’t wait to attend Whitecliffe College of Arts and Design with a life-changing two-year scholarship:
Supreme winner Jessica Jay with Schiaparelli inspired gown
“It is an amazing opportunity to attend Whitecliffe. I can’t wait to be in such a creative environment to challenge myself and improve my skillset as a designer.”
The judging panel all agreed that Jessica was a highly deserving winner, as her surface fabrication technique was extremely innovative, beautifully executed and successfully translated into a design true to that of Schiaparelli.
As part of the senior prize, Jessica also receives a two-week internship with New Zealand’s Taylor Boutique and a trip to Australian Fashion Week with M.A.C.
Supreme Junior Winner Lily Custance's Givenchy inspired ensemble
In the junior category, Chilton Saint James student Lily Custance was announced as the Supreme Junior Winner with her design that included a sheer dress and leather jacket inspired by Givency.
The 17 year-old was awarded with the top junior prize thanks to her well-considered creative journal and a beautiful final execution that balanced out two very challenging fabrics.
As the winner of the junior category, Lily will also receive hands-on designer experience with a two-week internship at RUBY and Liam’s head office, among other prizes from NZ Pleaters, Purfex and Bendon.
22 Junior (16-17 years) and 16 Senior (18-19 years) finalists showcased their garments down the runway at Auckland Girls Grammar School’s Dorothy Winstone Theatre. These 38 finalists were chosen from over 50 initial entrants into the competition and truly displayed just how talented up-and-coming young designers are in New Zealand.