The achievements of enterprising people from the UK Asian fashion industry were acknowledged at the International Asian Fashion Awards (IAFA) at the Hilton Park Lane on 19 November '11.
Pukka PR was invited to join fashion industry entrepreneurs and guests from various sectors of Asian commerce at a lavish awards ceremony which was founded & organised by Neeru Bhandari and Del Ghosal. Neeru combines a career in banking with fashion modelling and Del is a business man and Director of Laviva Events, the company which headed up this event.
A four-course Indian meal was provided by Madhu's who often cater for prestigious Asian functions and weddings. The exuberant TV/Radio Presenter Nikki Bedi hosted the awards ceremony.
Six guest judges were appointed to select winners. The judging panel included Neeta Lulla an acclaimed designer whose garments have been worn by several Bollywood celebs; Hassan of HSY house of couture and bridal wear; Lubna Rafique well respected Make-Up-Artiste/Founder of Lubna Rafique Make up Academy and main sponsor of IAFA; Sultan Asi fashion entrepreneur and joint founder of the IMANI haute couture brand; Jyotika Oberoi journalist who has worked with top media organisations like India Today and provides media coverage at red carpet events in India/UK; and, Onita Prasada Vashish an expert in fashion retail and CEO of designer fashion brand O'NITAA.
Fashion show segments took place while award categories and nominees/winners were announced in between the catwalk shows which featured nominated designers. The shows featured a glittering array of saris, cholis, strapless tops, lenghas beautifully and heavily embroidered with beads, pearls and sequins. Models dressed in chiffons and silks some with flowing veils for evening and shaadi wear looking colourful glamorous and feminine.
Hair Stylist Usma Rafiq showcased some of her dramatic big hair sculptures on catwalk models for the more daring personality.
Awards ceremony celebrations continued with an Afterparty in the Wellington suite at the Hilton.
The IAFA categories and winners were as follows:
Best Male Fashion Designer: Ziggi Studio
Best Female Fashion Designer: Silons
Best Make-Up Artist: Kaniz Ali
Best Newcomer in Fashion Design: Saran Kohli
Best Designer Brand: Santoshi
Best Wedding Collection Designer: Etka Solanki
Outstanding Contribution to the Fashion Industry: Satya Paul
Collection of the Year: Etka Solanki
©Article and photos by Gina Chrysanthou
Neeru Bhandari & Gina Chrysanthou
Asjad Nazir & Gina Chrysanthou Asjad Nazir & Amita Chatterji
Omar Mansoor & Gina Amita, Gina & Amun Bhachu
Nikki Bedi Tony Lit & Nikki Bedi
Ziggy Studio
Del Ghosal
Please click link below to view the full photo collections published in Gallery:
International Asian Fashion Awards at The Hilton