‘Before I came to FAD I didn’t have a clue about pattern-cutting, cutting out garments or any of the technical terms,’ says Oliver, a student currently working on a sweater inspired by a Victorian-style pattern he saw on FAD’s research trip to the V&A. ‘It’s even helped me improve on my course at college.’
With plans to include intricate detailing onto his piece, it’s a technical garment and so having the professional volunteers around him has been a huge plus. ‘I’m the type of person who won’t ask for help when I’m really struggling, but FAD has really helped me to interact with other people. The volunteers are kind, they’re willing to help me and I find it easy to learn from them. The things that I thought were complicated, they break it down for me and make it seem so simple.’
With a real passion for design, Oliver is looking to follow fashion as a career, and is grateful for what FAD has taught him about the industry. ‘I’ve learnt that it’s not as straight-forward as it seems,’ he continues. ‘For example, we had to do a customer profile for the person we’re targeting with our garment. I never knew it was that intense but it’s given me more motivation and let me know I have a lot more to learn, which is something I’m willing to do.’
Oliver’s three words to describe #FashionFutures2018 – Interesting, inspiring, empowering
