Hermione de Paula's S/S 10 'Las Venus' collection laden with subversive floral prints was a standout at last season's Vauxhall Fashion Scout 'Ones to Watch' show. The Central Saint Martin's trained print mistress has now been rewarded with Vauxhall Fashion Scout's Merit Award which will enable her to show next season at London Fashion Scout as well as having mentoring that will help develop her business. We have been following de Paula's past two collections (S/S 09 and A/W 09-10) and after her first showing at London Fashion Week last season, she has gained momentum by working with Browns Focus for S/S 10. “I am so thrilled to have been selected as the winner of the Vauxhall Fashion Scout Merit award.  Vauxhall Fashion Scout have already championed and helped the careers of some incredible designers and I am honoured to be considered in the same light,” says de Paula.

Past Vauxhall Fashion Scout Merit award winners include William Tempest and David Koma, with the latter recently scooping up high profile press with Rihanna, Beyonce, Cheryl Cole and Lady Gaga all wearing Koma's designs.

The Vauxhall Fashion Scout scheme is open to all new designers showcasing for the first time. Their A/W 09-10 shows in February will for the second season be held at the Freemasons Hall in Covent Garden.