Swarovski and SCAD Hong Kong creative partnership nurtures next generation of fashion design talent

HONG KONG,Nov. 8,2018 -- Creative collaboration between Swarovski and the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) Hong Kong supports students in their final graduate collection.

Designer Dylan Helyer (Photographed by Horatio Di Battista)

For the second year,Swarovski has supported five SCAD Hong Kong students who have incorporated more than 200,000 Swarovski crystals into their final fashion collections.

Maria Nava,who used custom fabrication for much of her edgy collection 'Green',commented: "I was thrilled to include Swarovski crystals into my final collection,as Swarovski is a brand that truly believes in and supports emerging talent in the industry. The crystals are of the highest quality,which enabled me to elevate my garments and truly express my style aesthetic."

Sustainability was a key design element throughout each of the collections. The students-- Cheryl Ma,Tammi Lau,Danica Borges,Dylan Helyer and Maria Nava-- were provided with both new and upcycled Swarovski crystals to embellish their garments. Other initiatives included using Merino wool for 60% of fabrics,a material which is 100% biodegradable,and sourcing 10% of the trimmings from vintage product.

Dylan Helyer,whose collection 'Dream State' was inspired by the ocean and aquatic life,chose to work with Swarovski because of its focus on sustainability. Helyer commented: "Understanding that preserving water has always been central to Swarovski's core values is crucial. 'Dream State' utilised Swarovski back to stock which avoided further energy consumption and material usage."

SCAD students are flawlessly prepared for leadership in the dynamic and ultra-competitive global fashion industry. The top ranked fashion program at SCAD offers a rigorous curriculum structured around principles of design,unbounded creativity and state-of-the-art technology. The tutelage of award-winning,experienced faculty and visiting mentors,enables students to master the full spectrum of fashion-- from the conceptual to the commercial. Each year,the SCAD Hong Kong Fashion Showcase is among the most celebrated student fashion shows in the region-- and this January the Swarovski crystal garments will be presented at the prestigious event.

The Swarovski graduate program is a demonstration of the brand's longstanding commitment to fashion education and nurturing the next generation of design talent. The support provided by Swarovski enabled these students to fulfil their creative potential at a crucial moment in their development as emerging designers.

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