After leaving a research trip to the V&A inspired by the Victorian style of embroidery, Jordanah Mbabaz is designing a jumpsuit for her FAD piece, which she will debut on the catwalk during London Fashion Week this September.
Although Jordanah had little experience in fashion design before beginning with FAD, she’s always been inspired by her grandma, who’s self-taught in tailoring clothes, as well as the bright patterns and colours of her African culture. ‘FAD has given me more confidence and it’s helped me open up my ideas,’ she says. ‘It’s helped me clearly share my ideas.’
Interested in going into either fashion design or styling in future, she’s looking forward to entering an industry and making a difference. ‘I think there should be more diversity and more younger people working in fashion,’ she says, discussing some of the issues the industry is facing at present. ‘Especially with models, I would be more diverse and provide opportunities for young people to come and volunteer.
‘I’m not nervous about it, I’m just aware,’ Jordanah finishes. ‘FAD has taught me that it’s not all going to come at once, and I think I’m prepared for that.’
