POPULAR clothing and accessories creator Adolfo Domínguez has won the National Designer Prize at the first-ever Spanish Fashion Awards ceremony, presided by Princess Letizia – her first public engagement as queen-to-be.
The designer, from Ourense in Galicia, has a store on several high streets in almost every province in Spain and many other countries, including a flagship boutique in London, and is well-known for his affordable mid-range clothing for chic, modern women.
As well as his elegant, classical signature pieces – which are the priciest but still within reach of the average budget – the U de Adolfo Domínguez range is aimed at a younger audience and Adolfo Domínguez Kids goes up to age 14, meaning they can often be worn by small adults.
And four years ago he launched The Music Collection, a range of funky streetwear and workwear with a snazzy twist in conjunction with Spain's chart radio station Los 40 Principales, the country's answer to Radio One, inspired by the outfits worn by modern-day international pop and rock stars.
Other awards included the New Value Designer Prize, which went to up-and-coming Basque creator Roberto Etxeberría; Large Fashion Industry Company Prize, to the cut-price chain Cortefiel which sells ranges by Madrid-based designer Pedro del Hierro; and National Small and Medium Fashion Business Award to the label Mirto.
Standing ovation for Princess' speech lauding 'dedication, creativity and asset to economy'
The Princess of Asturias – a title she will shortly hand over to her eight-year-old daughter Leonor when she becomes Queen Letizia of Spain – could not praise the fashion industry enough at the awards ceremony and recalled that the hard slog of numerous designers was what continues to result in one of the greatest assets to the country's economy and international image.
A 'form of expression with its origins in creativity', the industry has Princess Letizia's full backing, she wanted to make clear in her opening speech.
She expressed her great admiration for designers' 'creative capacity and enthusiasm, despite difficulties', which allowed the fashion sector to survive both in Spain and beyond, 'generating employment and stimulating the economy' as well as comprising 'an identity stamp' and 'creative form of expression' which would not be possible without the 'efforts of so many people'.
Wearing a stone-grey gauze dress with strass borders and matching shoes and handbag – said to be a Spanish label, although it has not been revealed which – HRH Letizia said that thanks to the country's designers, 'this outfit, this dress, these shoes, this jacket and this handbag' had become tangible and that these creators had 'made it possible for them to reach the hands of the wearer in the most efficient and excellent manner'.
“So many professionals dedicate endless hours creating, manufacturing and distributing their wares to help contribute to and strengthen Spain as a brand – they are a great example of teamwork and show how we are all better together,” the imminent Queen Consort declared.
“Thank you all for your dedication and hard work, for hanging in there with enthusiasm and excitement and, despite all difficulties, continuing to create 'fashion' – an expression which has a long and laborious road and a constant battle behind it to take a good idea forward, make it work and give it that touch of magic.
“This magic is a sensation we all have when we touch the folds of a piece of silk or admire the detailed engineering of an excellent pattern.
“Thanks for that effort, for that magic. Thank you,” concluded the former TV reporter-turned-Royal who, since her marriage to the man about to become King Felipe VI, has been permanently in the spotlight for her own carefully-selected fashion choices.
Princess Letizia's heartfelt speech was met with a standing ovation from the entire audience.
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TOP-END high-street fashion chain Adolfo Domínguez is expanding its empire outside of its home country after reporting a rise in sales abroad of nearly 30% in spring.
