Nestled between two Runway shows was the Festival’s Designer Award, a prestigious competition where finalists are selected by some of the industry’s leading names, and where winners become them. This year’s judging panel featured Vogue Australia editor Kirstie Clements and LMFF Director Karen Webster, while past winners of the award include Toni Maticevski, Josh Goot and last year’s victor Yeojin Bae.

The finalists themselves were in esteemed, though young company with this year’s line-up featuring London-based favourite Antipodium, style sisters Manning Cartell, quirky girl-about-town Gail Sorronda, ex-Youth World creator Therese Rawsthorne, elegant tailor Carl Kapp, and quiet achiever Thurley.

But it was up-and-comer Friedrich Gray who caught the judges’ attention with his relaxed, urban tailoring in moody shades of black. Employing a real mix of fabrics, from leather through to silk and wool, designer Ben Pollitt presented a collection full of versatile pieces just perfect for languid winter days.

Pollitt was also one of the few finalists who presented both men’s and women’s wear, and who also utilised sponsor Woolmark’s produce in his designs (no doubt earning him extra points with judges). However, in winning he also fulfilled the all-important judging criteria, which included demonstrating excellence in design; innovation; quality in manufacture; and the ability to contribute to the future growth of Australian fashion.

That growth will begin overseas, with one part of Pollitt’s prize being a trip to the Florence or Paris fabric fairs where he will be introduced to new fabric mills, wholesalers and contacts. And with the second part of his prize being $10,000 cash, Friedrich Gray will be given the chance to expand into the type of label winners of this award become: successful, sought-after and at the forefront of Australian fashion.

PHOTO GALLERY: LMFF Designer Award

Fredrich Gray Website