Abu Dhabi, UAE, 31 October, 2007: The search is on to propel hidden design talent into the limelight, with the launch of the Swarovski Abaya Design Awards, presented by The Bride Show Abu Dhabi, the must-attend bridal event for brides-to-be and women who love fashion. 

The competition, the first of its kind in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, has been launched to provide fashionistas an opportunity to reveal their creativity and make an entrance into the industry.  The awards are sponsored by Swarovski Middle East and endorsed by the Abu Dhabi Ladies Club and the Family Development Foundation.

The final designs will be presented on the catwalk by professional models on the final day of The Bride Show Abu Dhabi, which takes place from 5- 8 February 2008 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.  Thousands of people will see the designs and visitors will have the chance to vote for their favorite creation!

"The Swarovski Abaya Design Awards is a competition about modernity and tradition, about stylish people finding common ground with a more conservative generation" says Daphne Cota, Exhibition Manager of The Bride Show, the event organisers. "It is a competition breaking free from stereotypes, pushing cultural boundaries and exceeding perceptions of the traditional Arab dress."

If you are style conscious and sewing-savvy, you can increase your chances of winning the competition by attending the fashion seminars hosted by Swarovski Middle East at the Abu Dhabi Ladies Club.  Participants will gain valuable knowledge to help them design their final garment as well as tips and tricks of the trade.  The seminar takes place on November 13, 2007 at 20.00 hours and is free to attend for all ladies in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.

Werner Baumgartner, Managing Director, Swarovski Middle East said, "This is a real opportunity for talent in Abu Dhabi and the whole of the UAE to emerge.  The creativity and design flair we have seen in the Swarovski Young Designer Awards in the last eight years is testament to the imagination of young people in this country.  I am very much looking forward to seeing how the entrants use CRYSTALLIZED™ - Swarovski Elements in their traditional Abaya designs."

Those interested in entering the Swarovski Abaya Design Awards can download the application form from the official website, www.thebrideshow.com or pick up an application form from Abu Dhabi Ladies Club.  Deadline for submission is December 16, 2007.

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For further information please contact:
Anya Leonard / Lindsay Johnston
Total Communications
Tel: + 971 4 336 9909
Fax: + 971 4 336 9905
Email: anya@totalcompr.ae / lindsay@totalcompr.ae

© Press Release 2007