Prabal Gurung
Nepal- Prabal Gurung: A Global Fashion Icon
- Early Years and Education
- International Experience
- New York Career
- Awards and Recognition
- Personal Background
Prabal Gurung: A Global Fashion Icon
Prabal Gurung, the renowned Nepalese fashion designer, was born in Singapore and raised in Kathmandu. His creations have graced celebrities of all ages, from Leighton Meester of "Gossip Girl" to drag performer RuPaul. Gurung is the creative director and CEO of his eponymous fashion house.
Early Years and Education
Before launching his own line, Gurung honed his skills as the design director of the venerable American fashion house Bill Blass. He made his debut at New York Fashion Week in February 2009, showcasing his namesake collection.
Gurung's journey in fashion began in Delhi, India. While studying at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in New Delhi, he interned with notable Indian fashion houses, including Manish Arora.
International Experience
Gurung's travels led him to Melbourne and London, where he assisted stylists on runways and fashion shoots for international publications. In 1999, after traversing the world's fashion capitals for seven years, he relocated to New York City.
New York Career
Gurung began his New York career at Donna Karan while concurrently attending Parsons School of Design. In his first year, he was named "Best Designer" at Parsons' annual design competition.
After Parsons, Gurung spent two years with Cynthia Rowley, gaining invaluable experience in both design and the business of fashion in New York. He eventually became the design director at Bill Blass, spending five successful years there before departing to launch his own collection: PRABAL GURUNG.
Awards and Recognition
Since founding his company, Gurung has won the Ecco Domani Fashion Fund Award and was nominated for the CFDA Swarovski Womenswear Award in March 2010.
Personal Background
Gurung attributes his success in fashion to his sister and mother, who ran a clothing boutique in Kathmandu during his childhood. His mother came from a political dynasty that ruled Nepal for much of the 20th century, while his father was from a working-class family. Their marriage defied societal norms due to their different backgrounds. Shortly after their elopement, the young couple moved to Singapore, where their son was born. Like many middle-class Nepalese children, he received his education in India.
Today, Prabal Gurung's designs are worn by Michelle Obama, Demi Moore, Zoe Saldana, and Oprah Winfrey, among others, solidifying his status as a global fashion icon.
