Ecco Domani creates Pinot Grigio, Merlot, and Chianti for the unitiated. Much more exciting than their wines though, are the opportunities they create for up-and-coming fashion designers through the Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation (EDFF) awards. EDFF has announced a new award for 2008-guess what it is? The Sustainable Design Award, of course. EDFF has presented women’s and men’s wear, as well as accessories awards since 2001. Each winner of an EDFF award receives a $25,000 grant to help produce a show in February at the prestigious Mercedez-Benz Fashion Week in New York.

Applicants for the Sustainable Design Award may design for women or men, and must include the three elements of sustainability: environment, social equity, and economic viability. The designs must use environmentally friendly materials and production methods that promote fair trade or social equity for workers. All entries must be completed by Friday, October 3, 2008 at 5:00pm EST.

Former winners of EDFF awards include Zac Posen, Proenza Schouler, Rag & Bone, and Alexander Wang. This year’s judging panel includes Marylou Luther (Editor of the International Fashion Syndicate), Sally Singer (Fashion News & Features Director at Vogue), Christopher Bollen (Editor-In-Chief of Interview), Kim Hastreiter (Editor-In-Chief and Publisher of Paper), Nicole Fischelis (Fashion Director at Macy’s), and Julie Gilhart (VP of Fashion Merchandising at Barneys New York).

“Fashion is a very real reflection of the times we live in, and Ecco Domani is the first to create an award for those emerging designers who are not only thinking about fashion design, but also how the whole process affects the planet,” said Julie Gilhart. “True talent, in my opinion, is creating the same great design, style and energy that talented designers give, but also being concerned about lessening the footprint they are creating. It is most definitely the future of fashion, and with this new category, the Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation is once again breaking new ground.”

To apply for the Sustainable Design Award, go to EccoDomani.com to download an application.