Taking place at London’s Truman Brewery, Graduate Fashion week is at the top of the radar for students aspiring to be a part of the fashion industry.
After careful selection at pre-shows and judging panels, the best collections from BA (hons) Fashion, Business and Promotion and BA (Hons) Fashion Design were put forward by academics to exhibit live.
In addition to academic institutions, Graduate Fashion Week pulls together industry names, the fashionistas and the media; for those aspiring to a career in fashion, it’s the place to be.
2 Winners, 3 Runners up and 4 Finalists
Students were nominated for a number of prestigious awards including; ASOS Future Talent design award, New Fashion Media award, Superdry Outwear award and many more.
Collections covered various prints and inspirations from children’s old school games and colouring in, to tailored sportswear with an urban landscape influence and war work-wear with a hint of circus. Student portfolios also displayed a mix of modern solutions to tackle industry matters, new online platforms and sustainable concepts.
Pre Catwalk
Backstage preparation: Students prepare their collection to enter the runway by ensuring that the collection is steamed and in the correct order, shoes are ready and models have completed a trial change over and test run.
Lights, Camera, Action
Spotlight on the runway as the students collections spring in to action. Phones were held up across the front row and beyond, and all eyes were on the catwalk as the professional photographers and journalists captured the breathtaking moments.
One particular collection that won a place in the audience’s hearts and a 1st place award was Hannah Victoria’s childrenswear range for Mothercare;
Hanah's Highlight - “Definitely witnessing the children walk out. When I did the first preview they cried! On the day however, they went straight out and they loved it.”
Portfolio work and post Runway
Away from the catwalk but still under the spotlight, student portfolios were being assessed by industry judges where Rebecca Howland was later on revealed as the Winner of the New Fashion Media award and a £750 cash prize.
As the show wrapped up, the graduates spirits were still on a high. Drinks and conversations bubbled as experiences were shared amongst fellow students, staff, family and the media. ‘Absolutely buzzing’ Relieved’ and ‘extremely proud’ are some of the words used by students to describe the week.
Congratulations to all the students who took part and we look forward to seeing some amazing creations brought to life at next year’s show!
Could you be a future BCU Graduate Fashion Week winner? Find out more about the School of Fashion & Textiles courses.