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Seven finalists to hit New Talent design ramp

2 Jul 2009

Seven young designers have made it to the finals of the Elle New Talent Awards 2009 in partnership with Mr Price. Selected from a pool of 70 entries, the finalists will each showcase a range at the Elle New Talent Show at the 2010 Sanlam South African Fashion Week on 16 September 2009. The winner will also get a chance to redesign items from their range to be sold in selected Mr Price stores under the Project label.

Naomi Motlhamme

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Naomi Motlhamme, Liza Benson, Jonica Gubula, Elme Bekker, Marize Malan, Celeste Lee Arendse and Megan Perks made the cut and will compete for the much coveted title of Elle New Talent Award winner, which gets them assistance with launching their own label, mentorship with Mr Price as well as an overseas trip to London with the Mr Price trend team.

Elle's fashion director, Chris Viljoen said the quality of entries continues to improve year on year which shows growth of the fashion industry. The competition, which is held annually, is open to recently qualified designers who have not yet launched their own labels. Designers this year had to create a women's wear collection of eight garments for Winter 2009/10 under the theme ‘One World'.

“The entrants this year dug deeper into their roots and heritage, drawing from various influences across the globe and the result was exciting, bright, cheerful and optimistic designs that were delightful to judge,” Viljoen said.

“Last year's event was a major success and based on the talent and fresh ideas we have seen coming through this year, we are confident that the 2009 finalists will produce amazing ranges,” said Joanne Coelho, trend executive for Mr Price.

Previous winners of the competition include David Tlale, Frances Andrews (Library label), Tiaan Nagel and last year's winner Anisa Mpungwe who has since launched her own label, Loin Cloth & Ashes.