In January, 130 teenagers from Greater Manchester and London discovered a treasure trove of inspiration in the V&A’s newly opened Medieval and Renaissance galleries.

The research day marked the launch of FAD’s Fashion Futures 2 project – an intensive 10 week course which gives 16 -18 year olds a realistic insight into the working world of fashion.

The day began with a briefing from the FAD team, and introduction to the vast new galleries by Curator, Matthew Storey and Fashion Designer in Residence, Julie Sissons.

The young designers sketched works of art in the newly restored galleries – from luminous stained glass and gleaming enamels to intricate carved ivories and majestic architectural pieces. They also spent time investigating the famous fashion exhibits, and in particular the innovative and cutting edge designs of the 2008 RCA graduates.

The next step is the practical workshops, which take place at Hackney Community College (for students in North London) and Lewisham College (for students in South London). For the second year running, FAD’s newest Fashion Futures 2 project will take place at the University of Salford with teenagers from colleges in the Greater Manchester area.

2010 EXHIBITION

On Monday 10th May 2010, Fashion Futures 2 students from London and Manchester presented a collaborative exhibition of one off designs inspired by the stunning new Renaissance & Medieval galleries at the V&A museum. F.A.D. volunteer and journalism student, Joanne Prempeh reports.

GREATER MANCHESTER FINALISTS

Adam Preece, 18, Tameside College

2010 F.A.D. SUMMER SCHOOL

This year’s Fashion Futures 2 Summer School took place at The University of East London (UEL), marking the beginning of an exciting partnership for creative charity F.A.D.

The 24 finalists (4 from Greater Manchester, and 20 from London) spent five days with a team of expert tutors, technicians and graduate mentors creating their final outfits for the London Fashion Week catwalk.

The themes of Renaissance and new luxury have inspired the young designers, with draped silhouettes and opulent jewel shades cited as key influences from their research trip to the V&A.

"I think FAD is brilliant. The whole experience has been amazing and I’m just so thankful, because not everyone gets to do stuff like this. I did Fashion Futures 1 with FAD when I was in Year 10, that was great as well. I enjoyed it last time, and I knew this time was going to be so much harder, but also so much better in a way." – Chelsea Ward, Plumstead Manor (Greenwich)

Chelsey Ward, Plumstead Manor; Andre Augusto, Hampstead School; Black & blue dress by Andre Augusto.

2010 JURY

The following industry professionals who will select the 2010 F.A.D. Junior Awards winner and runners-up are:

Naomi Dominique, Design Director, River Island

Susan Aubrey-Cound, Director of Multi Channel Development, Marks & Spencer

Martyn Roberts, Director, Vauxhall Fashion Scout

Rosie Mills, V&A

Michael Tomczak, Designer

Hayley Willmington, Buyer, John Lewis

Helen Carter, Senior Fashion Lecturer, University of East London

Maria Alvarez, Executive Director, FAD