Prabal Gurung Biography: Awards, Age, Net Worth, Siblings, Parents, Height

Prabal Gurung is a Nepalese-American fashion designer based in New York City.

His early interest in fashion was influenced by his mother, who owned a boutique.

Gurung studied at the National Institute of Fashion Technology in New Delhi before continuing his education at Parsons The New School for Design in New York.

After graduating, he worked with Cynthia Rowley for two years and served as design director at Bill Blass for five years.

In 2009, he launched his label, known for its vibrant colors, precise tailoring, and commitment to diversity and inclusivity.

His designs have been worn by prominent figures such as Michelle Obama and Kate Middleton.

Profile

• Full Name: Prabal Gurung
• Stage Name: Prabal Gurung
• Born: March 31, 1979
• Age: 45 years old
• Birthplace: Singapore
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Nepalese-American fashion designer
• Height: 1.75 m
• Parent: Durga Rana
• Siblings: Pravesh Rana Gurung, Kumudini Shrestha
• Spouse: Unknown
• Children: Unknown
• Relationship: Unmarried
• Net Worth: $10 million

Early Life And Education

Prabal Gurung was born in Singapore on March 31, 1979, to Durga Rana, a former boutique owner and an unidentified father. He has an older brother, Pravesh Rana Gurung, an Indian film director, and an older sister, Kumudini Shrestha, a teacher and social worker.

Gurung began his academic journey at St. Xavier’s School in Jawalakhel, a Jesuit institution. He initially pursued a bachelor’s degree in hotel management from the National Council of Hotel Management, Catering Technology, and Applied Nutrition.

However, his passion for fashion led him to shift his focus to design. He enrolled at the National Institute of Fashion Technology in New Delhi, India, where he honed his skills and gained valuable experience through various apprenticeships. Gurung is of Nepalese-American heritage and practices Hinduism.

Career

Prabal Gurung initially pursued a career in hotel management, earning a bachelor’s degree before shifting his focus to fashion. His journey into the fashion industry began at the National Institute of Fashion Technology in New Delhi, where he refined his skills through various apprenticeships and immersed himself in India’s vibrant fashion scene.

Seeking broader opportunities, Gurung moved to New York City in 1999 to study at the prestigious Parsons School of Design, where he interned with iconic designer Donna Karan.

A two-year stint with Cynthia Rowley followed this before he took on the role of design director at Bill Blass for five years. These experiences significantly shaped his design perspective and understanding of luxury fashion.

In February 2009, Gurung made his mark on the fashion world by launching his eponymous label, PRABAL GURUNG, during New York Fashion Week. Known for its vibrant colors, structured silhouettes, and celebration of diversity, his collections have resonated with a broad audience.

His designs often feature models from diverse backgrounds, underscoring his commitment to inclusivity in fashion. The brand quickly gained recognition for its modern luxury appeal, and notable figures such as Michelle Obama and Kate Middleton have worn his creations.

Beyond his main label, Gurung has collaborated with major brands like Target and MAC Cosmetics, served as chief designer for Onward Kashiyama’s ICB brand, and created uniforms for Sephora’s beauty advisers, further cementing his position in the fashion industry.

Gurung’s influence extends beyond fashion. In 2011, he founded the Shikshya Foundation Nepal to provide education for underprivileged children in Nepal.

He has also advocated for immigrant rights, women’s health, and disaster relief, notably raising nearly one million dollars for victims of the 2015 Nepal earthquake.

Gurung’s commitment to social causes is reflected in his involvement with initiatives such as the “Stop Asian Hate” campaign, which addresses the rise in anti-Asian violence exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

His work has earned him numerous accolades, including the CFDA Swarovski Award for Womenswear in 2011, and he continues to be a prominent voice in both fashion and social advocacy.

Awards and Nominations

Prabal Gurung has received numerous awards and nominations throughout his career in the fashion industry.

Awards

• 2011: CFDA Swarovski Award for Womenswear
• 2011: Ecco Domani Fashion Fund Award
• 2011: USA Network’s Character Approved Award
• 2015: Inaugural Creativity Award from The Drawing Center

Nominations

• 2010: Nominated for the CFDA/Swarovski Womenswear Award
• 2010: Runner-up for the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund
• 2012: Finalist for the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Award

Social Media

• Instagram handle: @prabalgurung
• Facebook handle: Prabal Gurung
• Twitter handle: @prabalgurung

Personal Life

Prabal Gurung is currently unmarried and does not have a spouse. While there have been rumors about his relationship with Indian filmmaker Karan Johar, both have publicly stated that they are close friends.

Gurung mentioned dating someone about five years ago, but the details of that relationship remain private. At present, he is believed to be single.

Net Worth

Prabal Gurung’s net Worth is estimated at $10 million, primarily driven by the success of his fashion label, launched in 2009, and collaborations with major brands like Target and MAC Cosmetics.

His high-profile clientele, including figures like Michelle Obama and Kate Middleton, has further elevated his brand’s visibility and contributed to its profitability.