Cabaret, cross-dressing and political protests: these were just some of the themes on display at Regent’s annual student fashion show.
At the show – a staple of the Fashion and Design faculty’s calendar – undergraduate students showcased skills and ideas they’ve been working on for the past term, by exhibiting a full outfit design that explores a theme personal to them.
Steven Dell, Course Leader of the BA (Hons) Fashion Design, said: ‘Every year, the fashion show unites our strong fashion and design community, and our wider community at Regent’s. Students take inspiration from what their peers are working on, and get an insight into industry best practice. Above all, it’s a fun celebration of a job well done, and a fantastic way to wrap up the year.
‘At last night’s show, the students got to show off their skills and see their designs in action – on a model, rather than a mannequin. This way, they can see how to build on their ideas next term, and collect feedback and insights on their journey to a complete portfolio,’ he finished.
Three Year 3 BA (Hons) Fashion Design with Marketing students commented about their designs.
Orezime Esseh said: ‘My collection is a celebration of hybrid identities; it mixes together traditional Nigerian style, western tailoring, contemporary art and fashion influences. I hope to celebrate hybrid identities and redefine traditional styles by liberating the feminine figure.
‘Before I came to Regent’s, I had one goal: I wanted to run my own brand. Then I came to uni and I saw there were a thousand and one options. I‘ve developed an interest in fashion styling, fashion photography, fashion film photography. I’m even interested in cutting and styling. I’ve been exposed to so much; it’s such an international school.’
Natalie Wong said: ‘I wanted to create a men’s streetwear collection that really represents me as a person, and my designs are based on the Hong Kong protests, where I was born and raised. I used objects inspired by protests like backpacks and masks. I draped discarded umbrellas around mannequins to transform them into clothing. I’ve learned a lot about how the industry works and explored the world of design. My tutors are always pushing me to do better and challenge myself.’
Juliette Bougartchev said: ‘I was inspired by the dark side of cabaret in Paris, where I’m from. My designs are genderless: men in ruffles, dresses and corsets; women in tailored suits. When I first came to Regent’s, I didn’t know how to draw or sew at all, but I discovered I loved working with my hands. In the future, I want to create my own brand, but first I want to meet everyone I can, and gain as much knowledge of the industry as possible.’
The students worked with professional models and hair and makeup artists, which gave them an insight into industry process. The show was attended by fashion and design students, as well as students and staff from across the wider Regent’s community.
The BA (Hons) Fashion Design programme exposes students to practical aspects of design. It includes modules on pattern, construction, and creative cutting, to name a few. Students can also choose from several electives, including events management, in which they plan and coordinate a fashion show from scratch.
Regent’s also holds an annual graduate fashion show to showcase final year student collections. This event is open to press and the general public.
Internal student fashion show
