Daily Front Row

2012 March 8

Fashion Fringe Taps Christopher Bailey

Comments | | Print

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Christopher Bailey
Getty Images View Gallery

(LONDON) Who better to mentor Britain's nouveau go-getters than Burberry's Christopher Bailey? The buzzy Brit designer has signed a two year contract to be the chair of Fashion Fringe, an annual competition established in 2003 by fashion historian Colin McDowell and IMG to find and foster topnotch talent across the pond. Bailey follows in the footsteps of previous chairs including John Galliano, Tom Ford, Donatella Versace, and Rose Marie Bravo. His duties will center around selecting and mentoring the top three finalists and 2012 award winner, which will be unveiled during London Fashion Week in September. 

“Fashion Fringe provides a wonderful platform to develop emerging creative talent," said Bailey to WWD. "I am very proud to be partnering with them to unearth the next generation of exciting designers. The support, mentoring and guidance I received at the early stages of my career gave me the belief and self-confidence to explore the many wonderful opportunities that I’ve had.”

Applications for Fashion Fringe 2012 will be accepted beginning Monday, March 12. This year's winner will receive a two year mentorship, financial backing, and a fully-equipped studio at the Somerset House.
MARIA DENARDO