A prestigious internship with Martin Grant in Paris has been offered to an iD International Emerging Designer Awards finalist.
Vaibhav Singh (27), of Kolkata, struck a chord with Mr Grant - a judge of the awards and this year's iD Dunedin Fashion Show international guest.
After seeing the Indian designer's collection on Wednesday, Mr Grant decided to offer him a chance to develop his skill in the fashion capital.
It is the first time an awards finalist has been offered an internship with a judge and iD guest designer.
Mr Grant, originally from Australia, has made his name in fashion through living and working in Paris for about 25 years.
Mr Grant said he hoped Mr Singh, who was working as a designer for a New Delhi company, could accept the Paris internship.
''Judging such a diverse range of collections was an incredibly stimulating and rewarding experience. We saw so much talent in many of the finalists, but for me, Vaibhav Singh really stood out for his craftsmanship and potential as a designer,'' Mr Grant said.
The Indian designer's collection ''Ornaments of a Warrior'' was inspired by warrior weapons from various eras, including a battle axe and ninja throwing star.
His three dramatic outfits featured bold headwear and incorporated wood, woven leather chains and spikes.
Mr Singh cited British milliner Stephen Jones, who was last year's iD international guest, as an inspiration, alongside John Galliano.
He also took inspiration from the notion of creating a hero by using headgear to enhance the human face.
Mr Singh graduated with a bachelor of design degree from the National Institute of Fashion Technology in Kolkata in 2010 and last year presented his work in several shows and competitions.
