Malta National Fashion Awards announced

For the first time since the inception of the Malta National Fashion Awards four years ago, a nominee received two awards - Ilona Vella was named both best female model and best photo female model.

The awards, organised by Unique Promotions, are aimed at rewarding those directly involved in fashion, such as make-up artists, hairdressers, photo models, photographers, fashion designers and, above all, the models.

"The National Fashion Awards have become the main annual event for the fashion and beauty industry," Adrian Mizzi, director of Unique Promotions, said.

"There has been an enormous improvement in both sectors since the award was first launched. The event has been growing ever since. In fact, this year, we also had to find a larger venue for the ceremony," he said, adding that he believed the fashion and beauty industry deserved all the exposure it could get.

The ceremony was held at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta last Saturday.

Best male model was Adam Cini and Justin Haber was best male photo model.

Pierre Camille received the award for best photographer; Diane Nicolich, best make-up artist; Joseph H. Grima best designer for his Mugi collection and Tatai International received the best hairstylist award.

Mr Mizzi expressed satisfaction at the level of all nominees in each category. However, he noted there were still more talents that could be tapped. "Artists, stylists and designers should not work just to improve their commercial results but should contribute to the local fashion scene and set their own trends by participating in such events," Mr Mizzi said.

The show will be broadcast on PBS on May 11 at 9.15 p.m.