The Fabric Queens

(NEW YORK) One for the Americans, three for the Brits--and we're not talking gold medals. Finalists for the 9th annual Swiss Textiles Award have been announced, and this year, a CFDA stalwart is a contender. Rodarte's Kate and Laura Mulleavy are among the six finalists for the €100,000 prize, a reward made all the sweeter by its well-performing currency. This marks only the second time an American designer has been named a finalist. British designers Richard Nicoll, Louise Goldin, Jean-Pierre Braganza are also finalists, as are Toga of Japan and Cathy Pill of Belgium.

Since its inception in 2000, the prize has been awarded annually. Raf Simons took it home in 2003. In order to qualify for consideration, a designer must have designed their own label for at least four season and have shown their collections during a major prêt-à-porter fashion week in Milan, Paris, London or New York. The label must also be available in leading department stores worldwide and have been covered by the international press.

The winner will be announced on November 13 at Stella Fashion Night 2008 in Zurich, where it will be presented by Swiss Textile and Annabelle magazine at the Maag Music and Event Hall. Additionally, a recently-graduated Swiss fashion designer will receive the Annabelle award, which promises an internship at a prestigious design house abroad. The evening will also include a presentation of a special collection by Patricia Field. The Sex & the City stylist will headline the event. The Alps are calling!