Mary Katrantzou Scoops BFC/Vogue Prize in London

LONDON — Mary Katrantzou has scooped this year’s BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund prize, beating competitors Osman, Holly Fulton, Michael van der Ham, Mother of Pearl, Sophia Webster and Emilia Wickstead. The fund, established in 2008, provides the winning designer with high-level mentoring for a year, and a grant of 200,000 pounds, or $298,500, to pay for the infrastructure that allows them to take the next step in business. “It was an extremely diverse shortlist, but ultimately we all agreed that Mary has not only created a strong and hugely appealing identity for her work, but has put in place measures that, along with the support of this prize, should ensure an exciting and successful next stage of her career,” said Alexandra Shulman, editor of British Vogue and chair of the Fund. Designers presented their collections and five-year business plans to the judging committee, which is made up of representatives from businesses that support the prize and industry experts. The shortlist was revealed in February. This year, the BFC has also created an online video series called “Designer Fashion Fund,” which follows the application process, designer journeys, and interviews with the judging panel. The episodes will be published during the course of the year on

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