Oz envoy congratulates Indian designer on winning International Woolmark Prize

Australia's High Commissioner to India Patrick Suckling has congratulated Indian fashion designer Rahul Mishra, who has won the prestigious International Woolmark Prize at the final awards event, held in Milan.

Woolmark is a leading Australian fashion brand and a subsidiary of a company owned by 27, 000 Australian wool growers.

Mishra beat a pool of 48 designers from 20 countries with a collection of hand-embroidered cocktail dresses made from Merino wool.

He has won a prize of AUD 100,000 (Rs 55.13 lakh) and his designs will now be stocked in leading retailers around the world, including Harvey Nichols, Saks Fifth Avenue, 10 Corso Como, Joyce, David Jones, Colette and mytheresa.com.

Judges called Mishra's designs "delicate and beautiful" and praised his craftsmanship, as well as his knowledge of techniques and embroidery.

"I'm delighted that Rahul Mishra has won this award; his designs are stunning and a beautiful showcase of Australian merino wool," Suckling said.

He added: "Woolmark is a one of the most well-known and respected apparel brands in the world and Rahul's designs are a wonderful demonstration of India's design talent. I look forward to seeing them in leading fashion outlets around the globe.