VOGUE.COM

MEADHAM KIRCHHOFF, Todd Lynn and Peter Pilotto have been named winners of the 2011 Fashion Forward Prize – according to Vogue.com, an accolade usually only given to one designer. The prize, supported by Couts & Co, entitles each label sponsorship for their February and September 2011 shows, as well as expert mentorship from the industry's top names.

"I'm so happy," Pilotto told us at the ceremony last night. "It's so great to have the support of London. This will really help us to develop and grow as a label - I hope to spend the cash on casting, models and show production. It really is such a great invention. London is a great place for young designers."

Designer duo Benjamin Kirchoff and Edward Meadham were equally pleased.

"It's a very significant moment for us and will give us a relevant platform," Benjamin says. "I think the money will be absorbed into all aspects of the show - we'll put it towards a bit of everything."

Fashion Forward applicants are judged by a panel of industry experts including BFC ceo Caroline Rush, Harvey Nichols' buying director Averyl Oates and VOGUE.COM's Dolly Jones.

"Congratulations to the three winners," said BFC chairman Harold Tillman. "These designers are the best of London's rising stars. We very much look forward to seeing their shows next month."

Other fashion names to have attended the event included Elizabeth Emanuel, Jo Malone and BFC/Vogue Fashion Fund finalists, E. Tautz creative director Patrick Grant and footwear designer Nicholas Kirkwood - the winners of whom will be announced on February 1.