The 35th edition of the Andam Grand Prize culminated in an exciting announcement: Lebanon-born Australian designer Christopher Esber has won the prestigious award. Held at the Palais Royal gardens in Paris, this year’s ceremony highlighted Esber’s innovative approach to fashion, blending structured silhouettes with fluid garments and subverting traditional womenswear with elements of men’s tailoring.
Founded in 1989 by Nathalie Dufour, Andam is a renowned competition for emerging fashion designers, supported by the Ministry of Culture and DEFI, and chaired by Guillaume Houzé. The competition not only provides significant financial backing but also offers invaluable mentorship opportunities. This year’s total prize money of €700,000 was divided among several deserving winners, with Esber receiving the €300,000 Grand Prize and a one-year mentorship with Anthony Vaccarello, the creative director of Saint Laurent.
Other winners include Paradis by French designer Emeric Tchatchoua, who received the jury’s special prize; Pièces Uniques by Edmond Luu, awarded the Pierre Bergé prize; and Maeden by Christian Heikoop, honored with the fashion accessories prize. The Innovation prize went to Alternative Innovation for their groundbreaking Alterskin, an alternative to leather.
Christopher Esber, a finalist at the Woolmark Prize in 2013, launched his eponymous label in Sydney in 2010. His designs celebrate sensual femininity and relaxed elegance, often featuring cutouts and innovative tailoring. His unique perspective stems from watching his aunt sew in their family atelier and formal training at the Fashion Design Studio at TAFE NSW in Sydney.
This victory is a testament to Esber's dedication and talent, promising an exciting future for his brand. The Andam Grand Prize not only validates his past work but also sets the stage for continued innovation and success in the fashion industry.