Northumbria fashion students take their inspiration to the catwalk

Thatcher, silicon and science were just some of the inspirations for this year’s Northumbria University BA (Hons) Fashion Show at BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art which took place on Tuesday (May 13).

Key fashion industry figures turned out to see the internationally renowned degree course collections unveiled on the catwalk.

Part of NE1’s Newcastle Fashion Week, friends and family also had the opportunity to preview the final collections in advance of Graduate Fashion Week where the top collections will be picked to represent the region in London.

Over 50 fashion students showcased their designs at BALTIC including Rachael Jefferson from Bedlington and Emmie Vincent from Blyth.

Rachael’s collection is inspired by feminist icons and power tailoring, including references to menswear tailoring and the late Margaret Thatcher, using graffiti inspired print, pinstripes and leather.

Scientific experimentation using silicon as a fabric treatment makes Emmie’s designs a showcase of clever craftsmanship.

The 22-year-old student’s creative talents have been previously displayed on a Fenwick Christmas card.

Ones to watch in this year’s fashion talent also include 23-year-old Kelly McGrail who will take up a role with Scottish fashion designer Jonathan Saunders after graduating.

Kelly’s work has already captured the attention of GraduateFashion Week, who chose it for their publicity shoot. As a result, one of her garments has been picked for the Natwest UK Fashion and Textile Awards on May 22.

Kristen Pickering, programme leader fashion 2014 at Northumbria University, said: “Northumbria fashion graduates have become widely recognised for their talents and skills in craftsmanship, design and manufacture - and most importantly individuality; a Northumbria trait.

“Many of our graduates have won top awards at Graduate Fashion Week and the British Fashion Council, and have been headhunted by major fashion players.”