Congratulations are in order for Sophie Theallet, winner of this year’s CFDA/Vogue Fashion Award. The prize is a $200,000 grant, which allows her to scientifically expand her operations and of course puts her on the fashion map. For anyone who knows and loves fashion this is a great honor to receive. Past winners that have become household names include: Trovata, Proenza Schouler, Alexander Wang, Doo.Ri, and Rogan- who have come to make a deep impact in many American closets.
Theallet’s sophisticated designs were an instant hit in the U.S. when First Lady Michelle Obama wore her pieces to a few public appearances. The French designer got her start working under Azzedine Alaïa before she decided to start her own line. Her simply cut dresses and use of vibrant colors are sure to become another staple in American households. Shall I venture to say she will be the Valentino to First Lady Obama?
When asked how her business would change if she won, she had this to say, “I’m going to make my American dream come true because I am very happy to be in America. And I want to stay here.”
Theallet had some fierce competition. She beat out nine of the finalists. They are certainly names to look out for.
Jewelry designer Monique Pean got her start in Wall Street and now creates stunning pieces. She makes sure to work with conflict free stones and indigenous artist to ensure fair-trade wages. She is also a runner up for the award.
George Esquivel is an accomplished shoe designer, creating funky superior quality shoes for rock stars, athletes and Hollywood actors.
Flora Gill and Alexa Adams their edgy line of tailor suits, Ohne Titel, makes them a favorite amongst the fashion world. It is no surprise that they share their alma mater with heavy weights like Alexander Wang and Proenza Schouler.
Wayne Lee’s line Wayne has brought a fresh take on simple, ladylike women’s wear. And recently she has expanded to include handbags and jewelry.
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Gary Graham has been around for over 10 years; he is considering a veteran among nominees. With a background in textiles it is no wonder his piece have an opulence with a hint of history in them.
Waris Ahluwalia is the designer for his line House of Waris, which uses techniques from India and Italy to create large romantic pieces.
Simon Spurr known as for creating “the best-fitting suits-period,” Spurr’s irreverent flair has caught the eye for fashion insider’s everywhere.
Patrik Ervell is better known for casual wear pieces. He has a knack for mixing science and art, which can be seen in his recent fall show. He was also a runner up for the award.
Natalie Chanin created her line, Alabama Chanin, to be crafted in Alabama. She makes sure to never waste a scrap, which actually leads to some really great pieces.
Via: Vanity Fair
