NEW YORK (AP) – Luxury shoe designer Paul Andrew walked away the winner Nov. 4 for the Council of Fashion Designers of America/Vogue Fashion Fund Award, but there were 10 top finalists spanning many areas of the industry.
The British-born, New York-based Andrew competed against a milliner, a handbag maker, an eyewear designer, a knitwear specialist and a sportswear lover, among other up-and-comers considered the most eclectic class in the award’s 11-year history.
Making it to the finals is a big deal as hundreds try for the $300,000 grant, plus a year of mentoring by a seasoned pro. Two runners-up received $100,000 each and a year of help. Here we present one gifty item per finalist.
PAUL ANDREW: He worked for Donna Karan, Calvin Klein and Alexander McQueen for over 15 years leading up to his big moment. His tassel ankle bootie in python comes in a festive poppy red, $1,595.
RYAN ROCHE (runner-up): Raised in Idaho and based in upstate New York, Roche transitioned from childrenswear to whimsical knits for women. She often uses a women’s cooperative in Nepal. Her shaggy cashmere cardigan in pale lavender has wide ribbing at the wrists, $725.