NZ label Harman Grubiša up for international award!

At Remix, we're always so thrilled when our small country garners such vibrant international presence. We had even more affirmation of that today with the announcement that Auckland womenswear brand, Harman Grubiša, has been nominated for the International Woolmark Prize for the second year running!

Harman Grubiša is a label developed by gal pals Madeline Harman and Jessica Grubiša in 2014. The brand is centred on sophisticated, made-in-NZ clothing that makes women feel both empowered and sexy. We can definitely support that!

Based in the Remix hood of Ponsonby, the label is best known for its interesting silhouettes, luxe fabrications and standout pieces. The label has quickly become one of the most exciting emerging brands our country has to offer. They've made waves at New Zealand Fashion Week and, last year, received the prestigious Mercedes Benz Presents accolade.

New Zealand Fashion Week Founder/Director Dame Pieter Stewart nominated Harman Grubiša for the International Woolmark Prize this year. Woolmark, the global authority on wool (you've all seen the logo on quality wool products, right?!) celebrates excellence and innovation in fashion every year with this prize. It was originally, and most famously, awarded to Karl Lagerfeld and Yves Saint Laurent in Paris in 1954. It still stands as one of the most coveted designer awards.

Harman Grubiša, along with other nominees, will receive $2,000 to help develop their submission piece (merino wool-based, of course) and will compete in the Sydney regional event in July, with the chance to represent the region at the final global awards. The winners in both mens and womenswear in each region will receive $70,000 towards their final collection, and the global prizes are $200,000 for each category. Phwoar! Life changing for any emerging designer.

The Woolmark Company has restructured the prizes this year to include an Innovation Award, which celebrates the most unique and creative fabric or yarn development from a finalist. Given the girls' unique flair, we'll be cheering them on to receive this one too! Other restructures include bumping up the values of the final prizes to better support up-and-coming design talent, and promotions recognising the achievements of the best and most innovative textile mills as well. 

We are so proud of Harman Grubiša for everything they have achieved so far, and for every woman they have made to feel confident, unique and empowered with their clothing. Seems this label is one to watch! Good luck in Sydney, ladies!

Photo credit: Makeup Obsessives