As we move into a digital era, with social media becoming more prominent and influential in the industry, we're pleased to announce that we're appointing Digital Ambassadors! With support from Stylists, Journalists and Activists, we're excited to extend the ethos of Graduate Fashion Week beyond the annual event in Truman Brewery and into the digital sphere.
PHOEBE LETTICE
Creative Director of Illustrated People and Stylist Phoebe Lettice Thompson, has worked with brands such as Selfridges, Urban Outfitters, Nasty Gal, Dollskill and VFILES. As well as main line Illustrated People, Phoebe has completed numerous collaborations with other labels and personalities such as VFILES, Ed Hardy, Mark Hill, Violetta Fancies You and Braid Bar. Having previously curated spaces with the intention of bring together young female professionals and small businesses, her eclectic approach makes her one of the most exciting young women working in the industry today.
What made you want to be involved with Graduate Fashion Week?
The new designers, it is a very fun and exciting environment. I love seeing what ingenious new talent emerges. All of my Illustrated People team and styling team come from a fashion design degree/background. I have also made some really close friends by approaching graduates after their shows.
If you had to give some advice to up and coming fashion graduates, what would you say?
Don't be disheartened by what what you see online. Work hard to explore and expand your strengths.
What’s your favourite account on Instagram?
EUNICE OLUMIDE MBE
Originally born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Eunice Olumide is an international supermodel, broadcaster and curator. In 2017 she was awarded an MBE for her contribution to Arts, Broadcasting and Charity work. She has appeared in world wide campaigns, fashion weeks and editorials such including WAD Paris, ID Magazine, Dazed & Confused, Oyster, Paper Cut NY, New York Magazine, Pride, Vogue.com, Vogue.it, Bahrain Confidential and many more.
We're pleased to have her original perspective, experience of modelling and activist attitude, joining us as a Digital Ambassador!
JULIA REBAUDO
A freelance Journalist turned blogger, Julia has written for a wide range of print and online publications including Elle, Time Out, Sunday Times Style and The Guardian. Her perspective and media experience makes her a fantastic ambassador for GFW, bringing expertise in fashion and cultural journalism, to the Digital Ambassador panel.
What made you want to be involved with Graduate Fashion Week?
I love discovering new things and it’s really exciting to see new generations of talent coming through and claiming their space! I’m always fascinated to see how art and design are impacted by cultural influences and environmental concerns.
Which graduate collections have caught your eye this year?
I was really drawn to the strong minimal lines and silhouettes of University of East London student Lauren Hallworth and Jose Coaizo of Universidad de Vigo.
WHAT ENCOURAGED YOU TO BECOME AN INFLUENCER, AND USE YOUR SOCIAL PLATFORMS IN THE WAY THAT YOU DO?
My background is in journalism - as a freelance writer I wrote for publications including Elle, Time Out, Mixmag and The Guardian but I was always drawn to digital publishing; I love its immediacy! Picking up a camera a few year’s ago, it made sense to combine my writing and photography on my own platform - although I didn’t even have Instagram when I started my blog! Social is an extension of my blog for me and a wonderful way to share content and connect with people.
NATHAN LEWIS
What made you want to be involved with Graduate Fashion Week?
From a young age I've had an affiliation for self expression in all its forms from music, dance to fashion. As an artist I take pride in being unique and always try to reflect that in my style which can prove difficult to a achieve from mainstream retailers. Designers that are not afraid to be "out there" are the ones most capable of making change.
If you had to give some advice to up and coming fashion graduates, what would you say?
I would say to always be yourself, don't be afraid to take risks, be nice to everyone and try your best to learn from your failures not just your successes.!
What's your favourite account on Instagram?
That's a hard question I have visual favourites but others for mind & soul. Visually I would go for..
@lukasabbat
@dolcegabbana
How do you make sure you remain true to yourself on social media?
Well for one I tend to type how I'd talk in person, I remain aware that there is a time & place for everything. I will be myself with or without internet, unapologetically me.
Words & Interviews by Annabel Waterhouse-Biggins