Designers vie for fashion titles

The search is on for Scotland's fashion designer of the year, with nominations being sought from professionals and members of the public.

The prize is one of nine categories in the inaugural Scottish Fashion Awards 2006 which include "Scottish fashion icon" and "textile/cashmere designer".

Seven judges from the global fashion industry will assess the entries, with the winners announced in May.

Nomination forms are available online at www.scottishfashionawards.com.

The competition will culminate in a ceremony at Stirling Castle, where a series of items from some of the world's most high-profile fashion houses will be auctioned on behalf of The Prince's Trust.

'International arena'

The awards will highlight Scottish fashion luminaries such as Dundee-born Brian Rennie, creative director of Escada, and Graeme Black, creative director of Salvatore Ferregamo.

A spokeswoman said: "We have been working on this event for over a year and believe that the key to credibility and success in the international fashion arena lies in the judging panel."

They are Alexandra Shulman, editor of British Vogue; Jean Marc Loubier, chief executive officer of Celine; Alastair Johnston, vice-president of IMG; Amy Sacco, New York entrepreneur; Gary Van Dis, Condé Nast USA; Hilary Alexander, Daily Telegraph fashion director; and Jennifer Uner, founder/co-producer Los Angeles Fashion Awards.