PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival (MFF) has revealed six designers in the running to win the National Designer Award, presented by David Jones.
The finalists include Anna Cordell, Van Der Kooij, Iordanes Spyridon Gogos, madre natura, Best Jumpers and Hyde and Stone.
The winner of the 2023 National Designer Award will receive a cash prize of $20,000, a marketing and editorial showcase, and the opportunity to take over a window at the David Jones Bourke Street Flagship for two weeks.
A second award, titled the Honourable Mention of Sustainability, will be given to the finalist that demonstrates a strong commitment to ESG practice. The winner of this award will receive $10,000 and a mentorship led by David Jones in consideration of their sustainability and broader business goals.
Following the success of the David Jones People’s Choice Award in 2022, the National Designer Award will again allow the public to vote for their favourite designer for the chance to win a David Jones gift voucher valued at $1000.
MFF CEO Caroline Ralphsmith confirmed the National Designer Award is now in its 27th year.
"As the most established, credible and generous program supporting emerging Australian designers, the National Designer Award sits pride of place amongst our Industry Development Program,” Ralphsmith said. “This is only the beginning for our relationship with these outstanding emerging designers, with whom we will no doubt form sustained and meaningful relationships.
“We look forward to the winner’s announcement and watching the contribution of all our finalists as they continue to shape our fabulous industry.”
The 2023 judging panel for the awards include Ralphsmith, David Jones GM of womenswear, footwear and accessories, Bridget Veals; David GM of menswear, childrenswear and home, Chris Wilson; InStyle Australia Editor-in-Chief Justine Cullen; National fashion editor of The Age and Sydney Morning Herald; and JONES magazine Editor-in-Chief, Philippa Moroney.
Veals said the award has unveiled a number of designer talents in Australia.
“At David Jones, we have seen many of our most celebrated Australian designers - including Maticevski, Alemais and P.E Nation - be awarded with the country’s most esteemed fashion prize,” Veals said. “It is a pleasure to support and mentor them during their formative years to ensure future success of their brands and their vital contribution to the Australian fashion industry.”
The National Designer Award, the Honourable Mention for Sustainability, and the People’s Choice Award will be awarded on Thursday, March 9 this year.
Alemais, ESSE, P.E Nation and Dion Lee have been awarded the top title in recent years. Voting is now open via the David Jones website and will close on February 28.