CHARLOTTE, N.C., 2017-Jul-03 — /EPR Retail News/ — Belk announced the winners of its Fifth Annual Southern Designer Showcase this evening during a poolside, catwalk-style fashion show. The winning collections will be featured in select Belk stores and online in March 2018.
The Southern Designer Showcase began in 2012 to celebrate the regional Southern designers who embody Belk’s Modern. Southern. Style. This year’s five winners were selected out of 13 finalists from dozens of applicants. Tonight’s celebration was the first step of a nine-month journey to potential stardom for these up-and-coming designers.
“This competition allows us to help aspiring individuals accomplish their dreams, while also giving us access to the latest and greatest in southern fashion,” said Nadine Rauer, Belk executive vice president and general merchandising manager of feminine apparel.
This year’s Southern Designer Showcase winners are:
- Symbology: Marissa Heyl; Grapevine, Texas, women’s apparel
- Agape Gems: Courtney Johnson; Atlanta, Georgia, women’s accessories
- Natalie Wood Designs: Natalie & Ken Wood, Irving, Texas, women’s accessories
- Gigi Carreras: Mia Carreras; Snellville, Georgia, women’s apparel
- Veronica Ramirez: Veronica Ramirez; Sharpsburg, Georgia, women’s apparel
Southern Designer Showcase winners receive a cash prize and the opportunity to learn about the fashion industry from a brand with more than 125 years of experience. Their designs are sold in store and online next to top names in fashion. From concept to production and merchandising, the Southern Designer Showcase winners will refine their lines for the Belk shopper, learn about production at scale and experience in-store and online merchandising firsthand.
“We could not have chosen a better group of designers who truly embody Belk’s vision,” said Nir Patel, Belk executive vice president and general merchandising manager of men’s, kid’s, home and online. “We are very proud of this year’s results and look forward to offering our customers these phenomenal collections in 2018.”
About Belk, Inc.
Belk, Inc., a private department store company based in Charlotte, N.C., is where Southern customers shop for their perfect Sunday dress, the Saturday night outfit, and where family and community matter most. But Belk is more than shopping – it’s where you find your own unique way to express who you are. It’s where Southern style lives. Shop Belk in 16 Southern states and on www.belk.com to find an assortment of national brands and private-label fashion, shoes and accessories for the entire family, along with top-name cosmetics, a wedding registry and southern style for the home.
For further information:
Andy Izquierdo
214-304-1534
Andy_Izquierdo@belk.com
Source: Belk, Inc.