Christopher Kane named Scottish designer of year

Designer Christopher Kane. Picture: Getty

Now Christopher Kane from Newarthill, North Lanarkshire, has been named designer of the year for the sixth time at the tenth anniversary at the “Oscars” of Scottish chic – the Scottish Fashion Awards.

Kane was handed the title at a glittering black-tie gala ceremony at London’s Corinthia Hotel last night, themed as a “Highland Gathering”, complete with a piper.

Designer Cats Brothers, which is now based in London, won the coveted title of Young Designer of the Year, while young maverick menswear designer Charles Jeffrey was crowned Scottish Graduate of the Year.

Jennifer Hawkins showcases designs by Christopher Kane. Picture: Getty

The awards ceremony, first held in Stirling Castle in 2006, took place outside of Scotland for the third time. Hosted by Irish television’s Laura Whitmore, presenter of I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here, the event honoured designers, retailers, models and manufacturers based in Scotland.

The title of designer of the year had been won by Kane for five of the ten years the event has been running. Kane, who started his career almost ten years ago when he launched his namesake label with his sister, Tammy, announced a partnership two years ago with Kering – a French luxury goods holding company which owns brands including Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga and Gucci and is planning to open a standalone boutique selling Kane’s designs.

Kate Spade, Topman and I’M Isola Marras were all in the running for international designer of the year due to their use of Scottish cloths and fabrics, with Topman taking the title due to the “striking tartans” featured in its autumn/winter collection.

Judges of the awards included supermodel Stella Tennant and Caroline Rush, chief executive of the British Fashion Council, while entertainment was provided by Glasgow band Prides and 16-year-old Scottish soul singer Tallia Storm, who was discovered by Sir Elton John three years ago.

Misha Hart, who has this year modelled for Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Miu Miu, and Jonathan Saunders, was named Scottish model of the year. Also in the running for the title was Jean Campbell, Eilie Bennett and Paul Carrigan.

Founder Dr Tessa Hartmann said: “Our aim was to highlight Scotland’s contribution to the wider UK and international fashion industry and I think this evening’s nominees do just that.

“We’re so proud that over the last ten years this event has become a benchmark of success for the Scottish fashion industry. Long may it flourish and grow along with the incredible talent that it aims to represent.”

The Scottish Fashion Icon award, which is judged by public vote, went to Aberdeen-born Connor Ball from The Vamps, who beat competition from Calvin Harris, Scots DJ and boyfriend of singer Taylor Swift, and Paolo Nutini.

The shortlist also included Gerard Butler, as well as Doctor Who actress Karen Gillan, who has previously held the title.

Barrie Knitwear scooped Scottish Textile Brand of the Year, and make-up artist Lynsey Alexander will take home Communicator of the Year.

Dr Hartmann has previously defended her decision to hold the event in London rather than Scotland, citing a lack of interest north of the Border and a need to showcase Scottish talent on the global stage.

And the winners are …

Scottish Designer of the Year – Christopher Kane

Scottish Textile Brand / Manufacturer of the Year – Barrie Knitwear

Communicator of the Year – Lynsey Alexander (makeup artist)

Scottish Young Designer of the Year – Cats Brothers

Scottish Retailer of the Year – Walker Slater

International Designer Of the Year – Topshop

Scottish Model of the Year – Misha Hart (Viva London)

Scottish Fashion Graduate of the Year – Charles Jeffrey (Central St Martins)

Scottish Accessory Designer of the Year – Hunter Boots

Fashion Philanthropist – Nick Ede

Fashion Icon – Connor Ball (The Vamps)

Luxury Retailer of the Year – Belstaff (Glasgow)