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Unveiling the Next Generation of Fashion Visionaries: Northumbria University's Graduation Fashion Week Showcase

by Yuan-Yuan Watkis


Truman's Brewery, nestled in the vibrant Brick Lane district, underwent a stunning transformation as Northumbria University's graduation fashion showcase took center stage. Anticipation filled the air as attendees eagerly awaited the unveiling of extraordinary designs crafted by the university's emerging fashion talents.



The showcase featured a captivating mix of styles, including menswear, womenswear, and swimwear. Each designer brought their unique vision to life, captivating the audience with boundless creativity. Let's dive into the compelling stories behind some standout designers:



Kirsten Cochrane - Embracing Empowerment and History


Among the talented pool of designers, Kirsten Cochrane stood out with her fearless exploration of themes like female empowerment and the reclamation of the witch as a symbol of strength. Drawing inspiration from the Scottish witch hunts of the late 1500s and rebellious punk culture, Kirsten seamlessly blended historical references with a contemporary twist, exuding confidence and resilience.



Aimee Mann - A Poetic Ode to Remembrance


Aimee Mann's collection, "In Loving Memory," offered a poetic exploration of loss and remembrance. Inspired by cemetery statues and Victorian mourning dress, her pieces paid homage to those who have experienced profound grief. One particular ensemble caught my eye—an elegant variation reminiscent of the enchanting aesthetic of the beloved animated film "Corpse Bride" from 2005. The addition of fur-covered stilettos added a touch of daring uniqueness, elevating the ensemble to new heights.



Kira Banks - Pushing Boundaries with Futuristic Visions


Kira Banks mesmerized the audience with her forward-thinking collection, "The Domed City." Imagining the future of Antarctica, Kira incorporated sustainable fabrics provided and printed by @kornitdigital, seamlessly merging futuristic aesthetics with environmental consciousness. Her visionary designs pushed the boundaries of imagination, captivating onlookers with their unique allure.



Meg Fletcher - A Journey of Self-Discovery


Meg Fletcher embarked on a deeply personal journey of self-discovery with her collection titled "A Body In The Act Of Becoming." Each piece within her collection carried a unique narrative, allowing viewers to connect on an intimate level. One standout creation that caught my attention was the Bony Bodysuit—a testament to structural boning, featuring alluring cut-outs at the front and back. The incorporation of thigh-high boots made of fabric mache added an artistic touch, reminiscent of a mannequin leg.


The showcase also highlighted the contributions of fashion design and marketing BA film students, adding an extra layer of depth to the event. Through a collective film, students shared their personal journeys, inspirations, and aspirations, showcasing their growth since joining Northumbria University. It was heartwarming to witness the birthplace of their creative sparks—their very own bedrooms—nurturing their passions into tangible achievements.


After the presentation, I had the privilege of immersing myself in the designers' portfolios and engaging in insightful conversations about their creative processes. It was a truly inspiring experience to witness the genesis of each designer's journey and feel their genuine passion resonate through our conversations. From meticulous fabric selection to thoughtful design choices, their attention to detail was exceptional, resulting in awe-inspiring creations gracing the runway.


Northumbria University's graduation fashion showcase celebrated the boundless imagination, remarkable talent, and unwavering dedication of these emerging designers. They fearlessly embraced their unique visions, leaving an indelible mark on the fashion industry. The event served as a testament to their creativity and signaled the bright future that awaits them in the fashion world.


In addition to Northumbria University's presentation, the showcase was part of the esteemed Graduate Fashion Week (GFW), an annual event that brings together emerging talent from universities across the country. It provided an invaluable platform for these talented designers to display their work to industry professionals, gaining recognition and opening doors to potential collaborations and opportunities.



Graduate Fashion Week has played a pivotal role in launching the careers of many successful designers, and Northumbria University's participation in this prestigious event further solidifies its reputation as a breeding ground for fashion excellence. The showcase not only celebrated the achievements of these designers but also showcased the university's commitment to nurturing and supporting emerging talent.


As the curtains closed on the Northumbria University graduation fashion showcase, the audience was left in awe of the incredible talent and limitless potential displayed by these aspiring designers. The event served as a reminder of the power of creativity and the profound impact that fashion can have in expressing individuality and pushing boundaries.


With their remarkable collections, Kirsten Cochrane, Aimee Mann, Kira Banks, Meg Fletcher, and the other talented designers demonstrated their ability to capture emotions, challenge conventions, and inspire audiences. 


Their dedication and passion were palpable in every stitch, fabric choice, and design element. As we reflect on this unforgettable experience, it is evident that Northumbria University's graduation fashion showcase marked a milestone in the creative journeys of these talented designers. It showcased their ability to captivate, provoke, and shape the fashion landscape with their unique perspectives and innovative approaches.


Edited by Emily Duff

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