In June, our 21 Fashion Futures finalists took part in an intensive Summer School at the University of East London. With only 5 days to produce their final garments for London Fashion Week, the pressure was on.
The week had its highs and lows, with days filled with excitement, stress and a good few learning curves! The challenge was tough, but with plenty of help on hand from FAD volunteers and each other, the finalists perfected their pattern-cutting skills and learnt to sew on industrial machines. They painted, beaded, quilted, laced, fringed and embroidered until their garments were complete, ready to be showcased at Fashion Scout on Monday 19th September.
We caught up with finalist Abi Carew about her Fashion Futures experience so far.
Why did you apply for Fashion Futures?
“I applied for Fashion Futures because I wanted an insight into the fashion industry and my teachers spoke highly of the course.”
Tell us about your design and how it was inspired by the brief.
“My design was inspired by the colours and architecture of India. I found researching a different culture really fun, I read a lot, more than I was supposed to! It really pulled me in!”
How has your week been at our Summer School at UEL?
“My week’s been amazing and very productive. I haven’t found it too stressful, but I don’t like to get stressed out. It’s definitely been worth giving up my summer holidays, I haven’t got a textiles background but I’ve learnt so much by taking part.”
What has Fashion Futures taught you so far?
“My Fashion Futures experience has taught me how to create patterns, to take time when I do things and not to rush. It’s given me more patience with things, because sometimes your plans don’t go right, but you just have to take a deep breath and fix it. I’ve become more confident in myself and what I do.”
What’s next for you?
“I want to do finance in the future, but fashion is not going to be out of my life. I’ll definitely do something on the side.”
What challenges do you think young people face when trying to get jobs in the fashion industry?
“Young people face issues with confidence or being scared to be unique, and maybe being small-minded in a way. People might not want to do something in case others don’t like it.”
Fashion Futures would not be possible without our sponsors at Natwest and George at Asda.
