Bailey names Fashion Fringe winner

Last night London Fashion Week came to a spectacular end when Christopher Bailey named Haizhen Wang as the winner of the 2012 Fashion Fringe accolade. The Central Saint Martins graduate won the award ahead of his fellow finalists Teija

Eilola and Vita Gottlieb after they all showcased their debut collections at the main tent at Somerset House.

Speaking about his chosen winner, Christopher Bailey said: “Tonight has been a truly wonderful example of the incredible energy and original creativity flowing through London and Britain at the moment.

“I was so honoured to Chair Fashion Fringe in 2012 and to work with the team to help support and unearth the next generation of exciting designers. It is a privilege to work with Colin McDowell, he has always been such an incredible supporter of young British talent and being involved in the selection of the 2012 winner has been an inspirational and humbling experience.  

“The level of talent and skill showcased not only by this evening's winner, Haizhen Wang but also finalists Teija Eilola and Vita Gottlieb as well as the entire Fashion Fringe alumni throughout the selection process, has been remarkable. I am so excited about charting the progress of Haizhen, this is only the start of his journey!”

Chinese-born Haizhen Wang will now join the ranks of other notable Fashion Fringe winners including Erdem, Fyodor Golan, Basso & Brooke and Corrie Nielsen, and will receive support worth over 100,000 Pounds including a fully equipped studio space at Somerset House for the next four seasons and further mentoring when needed.

Wang who has worked for the likes of Max Mara, Boudicca and All Saints before setting up his own label in 2010, presented a winning collection inspired by the works of the Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava as well as his fascination for Japanese armour and historical costumes. He also used a 3D digital printer to create some elements of his collection, including the shoes and masks.

Speaking of his win, Wang said: “I’m really excited. It’s absolutely fantastic. It’s such an amazing opportunity to win. It’s my career’s turning point.”

Fashion Fringe, now in its ninth year, was founded by Colin McDowell in conjunction with IMG Fashion, and has established itself as one of London’s leading platforms supporting new design talent. The platform is unique it doesn’t just fund designers but also gives them mentoring on how to run a fashion label and turn it into a successful business. This year’s three finalists also all got a two week mentoring internship at Burberry as part of the competition.