Sydney Fashion Scholarship Winner Announced

Australia's coveted DHL Express Fashion Export Scholarship has gone to womenswear designer Michael Lo Sordo, already a big name in fashion Down Under.

Known for his timeless, luxurious designs, Lo Sordo has been growing his label over the last six years, recently securing Net-A-Porter as an exclusive international stockist. With the new award, the designer has the chance to take the brand to the next level by receiving a shipping credit of $10,000 AUS, a DHL Express mentorship to supercharge his export strategy and a ticket to New York for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in September, where he will meet with an international buyer.

Already solidly cemented in the Australian market, the designer's solid business plan for expansion was what gave him the win ahead of the other outstanding finalists, Christopher Esber and Karla Spetic.

Judge Alice McCall, acclaimed Australian fashion designer, said Michael Lo Sordo was an obvious choice due to his understanding of range planning, ability to appeal to a range of demographics and styles, successful export strategy and huge potential for international growth.

“Michael has that subtle gift in that he can make collections stand out, but not shout. You can imagine his collections fitting in seamlessly to displays at Barneys or Bergdorf Goodman. Finding this balance is critical for international success. But taking a brand to the global market is about more than just the aesthetic, it is about delivering on time; understand the fit of the garments; and having a great quality product. Michael has all this and more. He shows a real balance between commercial appeal and having a unique twist – I can’t wait to see where he goes from here.”

The scholarship has already helped launch talented Australian designers including KAHLO,Haryono Setiadi, We Are Handsome and Bec & Bridge, overseas so it's a great opportunity for Lo Sordo as he plans his business expansion.

“My brand philosophy has always been about understanding our market, and who the Michael Lo Sordo customer is, as I believe this is the key idea to achieving our future goals,” he told DHL.

“Since the label began, I knew it was important to cement our foundation strongly within the Australian market before branching out overseas. Over the years we have built a reputation for our designs with strong support from celebrities as well as local and international media and buyers.”

“I am so grateful to DHL Express and IMG Australia for this opportunity, and can’t to start working with them.”

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