We’ve had a huge day here at the Class of 2020 Showcase, where industry have been dropping by for the private exhibition viewing of graduates work. We’ve been visited by teams from US Vogue, Joseph, size?, YKK, River Island, Browns Fashion and more. It’s an opportunity to showcase the incredible talent of the Class of 2020 in the flesh.
“Having an industry focused day gives the students the opportunity to show what they’re all about,” says Douglas MacLennan, GFF Chairman. “Until now, everyone has been communicating through a screen, so now people are actually able to touch, feel and see the hard copy which is just a massive relief. I’ve had so many supportive comments from the industry about the talent.”
“Being a part of the GFW exhibition has given me the opportunity to show my work and make some connections,” says Talin Tariq, a graduate from Cambridge School of Art. “It’s helped me to speak about what this year has been like and show how I was able to finish it despite all the challenges.”
“For the class of 2020, to have their work here is a dream come true after 6 months of madness,” says GFF President Hilary Alexander OBE. “To finish your final year collection under those circumstances is quite exceptional and we’re thrilled with the standard of work, the amount of work, and it says a lot for the British Fashion Education and the bull dog spirit of our graduates. Nothing has stood in their way.”
“I’m incredibly excited at what I’ve seen and that’s been the feedback I’ve received from the industry too. It’s a reflection on the professionalism that is delivered in our educational institutions that despite the carpet being pulled beneath the feet of both students and academics,” says MacLennan. “They’ve risen to the challenge and if they can do that in a year as such, imagine what they can achieve in a normal year!”
Photography by Richard Kelly Photos