UAE fashion students compete for 'Swarovski Young Designers Award'

The award, held in partnership with The Bride Show Dubai 2005, the Middle East's largest and most distinguished exhibition for wedding day organisers and brides-to-be, will take place on the final day of the show when students will present wedding dress designs.

"Over the years, The Young Designers Award has given exposure to up-coming fashion students and has helped launch careers of aspiring new designers,' said Charlotte Proudman, Event Manager, The Bride Show Dubai 2005, which will run at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre from April 12-15 and is open to the public.

Participating schools include Preston University, The Design Academy, MAHE Manipal - Dubai Campus and Pearl Academy. The award winner will get an internship at one of the region's leading couture houses.

"We believe it's crucial that young talent is encouraged and supported. The award not only provides exposure for the creative ability of young fashion students, but also gives them the opportunity for the eventual transition from the classroom to the industry" said Javeria Pascha, Chairperson, Fashion Department, MAHE Manipal - Dubai Campus.

Students taking part will first have to pass a number of pre-qualification stages, and present their design sketches, before moving on to the next stage of making the dress.

"The Young Designers Award has grown over the years and now represents one of the most important attractions at show. The award also attracts huge support from the region's design industry and students present their fashion creations on a professional catwalk among an audience of thousands."

Last year, 26-year-old Lana Nahawi, a Palestinian student at MAHE Manipal-Dubai Campus won the coveted title. Her corseted wedding dress with leather strapping beat 29 other entries.

"Winning this award gave me tremendous confidence to develop as a designer. I think this award held during The Bride Show Dubai offers great opportunities for young fashion hopefuls," said Lana.

Competing students will be given access to the vast range of crystal fashion accessories produced by Swarovski, one of Austria's leading jewellery and accessories names.

"We will be looking for creative use of these products in the enhancement of the wedding dresses," said Grace Ghunaim, Communications & CSC Manager, Swarovski Middle East.

"We want students to develop their creative awareness and explore design to the fullest."

The Bride Show 2005 is endorsed by the Dubai Ladies Club and Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Diamond sponsors include Swarovski, Abu Haleeqa, Eternity Jewellery, Moora Beauty Salon, Al Boom Tourist Village, Hafeet Gardens and Light House Stage Design. Gold sponsors are National Bank of Abu Dhabi, Shattaf Jewellers and Awad Al Qubaisi