Qiu Hao wins Woolmark Prize
China-based Qiu Hao is to join designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, Donna Karan, Ralph Lauren, Dolce & Gabbana and Giorgio Armani in the Woolmark hall of fame, as winner of the 2008 Woolmark Prize.
The original wool awards were held between 1954 and 1992 by the International Wool Secretariat (IWS), and the Woolmark Prize takes up where IWS left off.
The aim of the prize is to highlight the importance of Merino wool for the fashion world by rewarding emerging talents and cutting-edge creativity.
Before attending Central Saint Martins College, London, Shanghai designer Mr Hao graduated in interior design at Suzhou University. As the winner, he will receive industry support to the value of €100,000, and Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) will help in sourcing material, production, presentation and promotion of a collection. Furthermore, high-end Paris boutique, Colette, has agreed to carry exclusive stock of a limited edition garment.
