THE design duo behind the label STRATEAS.CARLUCCI has taken out the double at the Australian regional International Woolmark Prize (IWP) awards.
STRATEAS.CARLUCCI won both the menswear and womenswear awards following judging by a panel of international fashion experts in Sydney today.
The Melbourne-based label is a new creative collaboration between Australian designers Peter Strateas and Mario Luca Carlucci.
Inspired by Indigenous artist Emily Kngwarreye, STRATEAS.CARLUCCI was praised for their exquisite tailoring of woven Merino wool.
Supplied by Woolmark licensee Nikke, the woven fabric had a water repellent finish and the complementary detailing between their menswear and womenswear outfits allowed the duo to showcase their brand across the two categories.
"We're absolutely thrilled, overwhelmed and grateful for this amazing opportunity," Mario Luca Carlucci said after the announcement.
The designers will take home a $50,000 contribution towards their next collection, as well as an invitation to represent Australia in the international finals.
The final for menswear will be held during London Collections: Men in January 2015, and the womenswear final will be held in Beijing in March 2015.
The international winners will be awarded $100,000 and the opportunity to be stocked in leading global retail stores.
The IWP is the jewel in the Australian Wool Innovation’s fashion promotion activities. It is designed to generate long-term incremental demand by connecting emerging designers, emerging markets and consumers.
The judging panel for the Australian regional final comprised fashion designer Roland Mouret; David Jones general manager for menswear, Deborah Foreman; David Jones general manager for womenswear, Sophie Clarke; Vogue Australia editor-in-chief Edwina McCann; and Harper’s BAZAAR Australia editor-in-chief Kellie Hush.
