Last week saw the 4 day extravaganza that was the 22nd Graduate Fashion Week in London. The theme for 2013 was firmly focused on employability, promotion of new talent and how to bridge the gap between graduation and starting anew in the fashion industry. Perhaps this theme was inspired by recent economic news, or the fact that the dreaded 'recession' word is still unflinchingly on everyone's lips? But either way, it's great that there is such a high profile celebration of young designers emerging from UK colleges.
Throughout the week there were a huge array of events from workshops on how to land the perfect job, catwalk shows from each of the main six colleges, all culminating in the glitz and glamour of the gala show that took place on Wednesday evening. During the gala, budding designers showed their final collection on the catwalk to be judged by some incredible talent in the industry, including British designers Roland Mouret, Holly Fulton and Todd Lynn; swoon-worthy model David Gandy and fashion retail giants Fiona Lambert from George, Stephen Ayres from Liberty's and Holli Rogers from Net-a-porter; to name but a handful!
So, the judges had the unenviable task of choosing between the beautiful final collections of a number of graduates, with Lauren Smith from the Edinburgh College of Art took home the gold award. The prize for her quirky cool collection inspired by an artists sketchbook, won her £20,000 and the opportunity to design a capsule collection for headline sponsor George.
Other winners included Hannah Williams from UCA Epsom, stealing the show and being presented with the Innovation Award for her minimalist collection in pastel and white embossed latex.
Kirandeep Bassan from the University of Northampton took home the Textiles Award for her show-stopping pieces in rainbow colours.
The Menswear Award was handed to Shauni Douglas and Olivia Creber from Edinburgh College of Art for their exciting, beautifully-finished tailored pieces.
Finally, the Visionary Knitwear Award was bestowed upon Thea Saunders of Nottingham Trent for her incredible oversized, vibrant designs which the judges described as "Chloe meets Marni"!
Congratulations to all!
Photocredit: http://www.graziadaily.co.uk/fashion/news
No comments:
Post a Comment