“I have learnt more about fashion design, careers in fashion and how to produce a garment to a high standard. FF2 was a really enjoyable experience and has helped me with many different skills” – Stephanie Boateng, Our Lady’s School, Hackney

Celebrating weeks of hard work, the Salford and London students presented their finished calico toiles to friends, family, teachers, industry guests and funders at the special event. Teenagers from 13 different London boroughs took part in the exhibition, illustrating how the Fashion Futures 2 project brings young people from all over the capital together.

It was also the first year that Salford was involved in the project, with FF2 participants from Eccles and Pendleton Colleges travelling down to London especially for the event.

Students were inspired by the principles of the Arts & Crafts movement

The walls featured an array of colourful mood boards and illustrations, alongside sketchbooks crammed with inspiration taken from FAD’s credit crunch inspired brief – ‘Arts & Crafts with a twist’. The final garments made for an impressive display of creative silhouettes and sophisticated cuts, proving how the standard of work this year was exceptionally high.

“I really liked having the opportunity to design my own garment without the limitations of a commercial pattern. I also really enjoyed the printing workshop and the draping session.” – Naomi Aylwin, Prendergast Hilly Fields College, Lewisham

Hackney Councillor and Chair of the City Fringe Partnership, Guy Nicholson, was a guest of honour. Before the finalists were announced, he gave an animated speech praising all the young people involved for their talent and dedication to the project.

Councillor Guy Nicholson chatting to Hackney students at the exhibition

As always, the young designers along with their families and tutors waited with anticipation to find out which lucky 23 students had made it through to the FAD Summer School at Central Saint Martins and the 2009 FAD Junior Awards and catwalk show. Bernie Yates, Widening Participation at Central Saint Martins presented the prizes to the successful teenagers - 10 from South London; 10 from North London and 3 from Salford.

“The best part of the course so far has been learning new skills, meeting more people from the fashion industry and getting advice for the future.” – Egle Zepkinaite, City & Islington College

Salford students travelled down to London to see their work exhibited

Building on the success of last year’s spectacular show, the 2009 FAD Junior Awards will once again take place at Vauxhall Fashion Scout as part of their official schedule for September’s London Fashion Week.

“I cant believe I’m a finalist – I’m in complete shock. It's given me a real confidence boost!. I can't wait to see my finished design on the catwalk; on a person with everyone watching. To go to Central St Martins will just be amazing!!.” – Sophie Ede, The Charter 6th Form College, Southwark

As well as showcasing their designs on the catwalk, the 23 finalists will also benefit from a unique Industry programme which will include visits to the Head offices of FAD supporters, River Island and John Lewis.

A paked house at Rich Mix as the finalists were announced

FAD's 2009 Fashion Futures 2 finalists