It was the second attempt at winning the award for New Zealand designer Laurel Judd, with judges David Tester and Colleen Smith unanimous in their decision.

The supreme garment was a fitted and backless machine knitted in fine Merino yarn with silver lurex highlights. 

The bodice was encrusted with beading and embroidery, with a fringed hem as a stand out feature. It was inspired by icy frost and snow crystals.

Mr Tester, from Albury, said the judge’s decision was a difficult one with five quality finalists.

He said the gown, which featured a fringed skirt and wrap, epitomised “sophisticated elegance’’.

The outfit was capably modelled by Billabong High School Year 10 student Nessa Liston, Henty.

Open to amateurs and professionals, the awards recognise the innovative use of natural fibres – from paddock to catwalk – in creative but wearable clothing.

The judging emphasis was on visual appeal, creative and innovative use of natural fibres.

Awards organiser Lyn Jacobsen said the natural fibres could include wool, alpaca, angora, mohair, cashmere, cotton, silk and linen.

Mrs Jacobsen said the awards had attracted almost 90 entries from around the nation, as well as New Zealand and India.

She said Laurel Judd’s win in the supreme garment would lift the profile of the awards internationally

Mildura designer Judy Bond backed up her previous wins to take out the knitted or crocheted garment section.

The fitted sleeveless cream cocktail dress was made from wool and alpaca fibre.’

Judge David Tester said the gown had stylish elements and the wow factor.

“I simply took a crochet hook and ball of yarn to see where it would go – I didn’t want anything with seams, zips or buttons,’’ Judy Bond said.

“It is 70 per cent pure Merino wool and 30 per cent alpaca fibre.

“I love working with wool as it is soft and easy to manipulate.’’

Chosen from nine finalists, the winning garment was modelled by Mollie with the judges complimenting the design, style, handiwork and finish.

Fashion award winners