The International Woolmark Prize: Another feather in Khadija Rahman’s cap!

She made us proud earlier this year with her “Bring Basant Back” Collection for PSFW’17 and the more recent ace up the sleeve of our Creative Director, Khadija Rahman, was the nomination for the Indian Subcontinent and the Middle East regional finals of the International Woolmark Prize’17, the awards ceremony of which was held at the FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. The panel of 9 judges this time, all eminent names in the fashion fraternity of the region, included Fashion Designer, Manish Malhotra, Editor of Harper's Bazaar (India), Nonita Kalra and Alison Tay, Editor of Grazia Middle East, to name a few. Mentored by Ekta Rajani, Assistant Editor of Grazia (India) and Vijindra, Managing Editor of Grazia (India), Rahman’s piece was inspired by marine life, its kaleidoscope of rich textures and colours, with a strong focus on Anemone and coral reefs. Titled “Coral Pleasure” for A/W 2018, the outfit consisted of a cardigan made in 100% Merino wool, constructed with a unique combination of machine, hand-knitting, mirror work and crotchet. Underneath the cardigan was a full-length laser appliqued and sheer- knitted Angarkha along with gold printed straight pants. Talking about her experience, Rahman reflects: “It was a humbling and challenging experience. To be considered among and to complete with, the region’s most creative lot for an international award, was indeed an honor. More interestingly, however, was the journey: get acquainted with merino wool, using hand-spun yarn, exploring hand knitted and hand-loom techniques and the guidance of highly accomplished mentors. The event in Dubai was very well organized and the winner’s piece was sleek and on trend- the win was surely well deserved!” The Woolmark Prize started in 1953 as an initiative of the International Wool Secretariat, and has now evolved into one of the most prestigious awards for rising fashion stars. It challenges the world’s leading innovators, to achieve greatness in design through the use of Australian Merino wool.