After weeks of hard work, the final week of the Fashion Futures programme began in earnest as the students made final preparations ahead of their presentations. This was the chance for the students to showcase their designs to a panel of industry experts including professionals from ASOS as well as previous Fashion Futures graduates Daisy (2006 – International Project Manager at L’Oreal), Nina (2009 – Senior Accessories Designer at Sophie Hulme) and Joel (2009 – Founder of menswear brand JOBO and Stylist at Amazon Fashion).
“I will be sad when it’s over. The most important skill I have learnt has been how to do the technical drawings and learning how to construct a garment.” – Sophia
The students were divided into groups, with each group given a time to present their projects to the panel. The volunteers were on hand as always to offer last minute advice and provide support. Danielle coached the students on how they were going to present their work and which features of their garments they wanted to highlight.
“I will miss all the people who are so nice and friendly. FAD has really improved my technical skills!” – Abby
The panel reviewed each project while the students explained the inspiration behind their designs and the challenges they faced in constructing their garments. The students acquitted themselves brilliantly to this challenging task, with everyone speaking clearly, confidently and passionately about their designs. This assignment also gave them great skills which will help in their future regardless of the industry they decide to enter.
“I didn’t have any previous experience pattern cutting so doing this project has been really helpful. I have enjoyed the opportunity to talk to people who work in the industry” – Edie
Once each group had presented, the students had the chance to unwind and review their experiences on the Fashion Futures programme. Meanwhile, the judges had the unenviable task of picking 20 finalists from this year’s fantastic group of students.
“I want to keep coming to the workshops because in the space of a few weeks I have learnt more here than over several months at school” – Faika
As the 2018 Fashion Futures programme draws to an end, it is important to note that it wouldn’t have been made possible without the fantastic support of our volunteers from companies across the fashion industry as well as from sponsors ASOS and NatWest. They have trekked through the wind, rain and snow in order to help the students and ensure that everyone gets the same support.
“I will look back on my FAD experience with pride and am happy with how my garment has turned out” – Ben
“The judges were really nice and asked lots of interesting questions. Overall I was pleased with how it went and said everything that I had planned on saying” – Eliza
“I have been really impressed with how much the students have and how confident they are. You can really see their passion for fashion come through in their designs!” – Rachael, volunteer
Stay tuned for the big reveal of the 20 finalists on the FAD instagram feed on 10th April from 2pm! The finalists will be given the opportunity to create their garments in final fabrics and then showcase them on the catwalk at London Fashion Week!
“The biggest skill I have learnt has been how to take a design from a drawing to a pattern. I really enjoyed the Fashion Futures programme and think it’s given me a good chance to get ahead” – Tana
#FADFactoftheday – Did you know that Madame Grès was the originator of the modern draping method. She applied the technique to her Grecian-inspired silk jersey dresses, which these consumed 70 yards of fabric each.
