Clothes minded:

Clothes minded: Young designers are the ones to watch this season

By Sherry Tagoe

So I'm sitting in darkness, anxious, excited, and impatient. You may think I’m at my GP surgery, but I’m not, these feelings are equated to the anticipation of the 2nd Annual Celebration of the Young Fashion Designers. Taking place in the Cockpit Theatre located in the heart of North West London this designer showcase is well received by the response of the onlookers. Judging by the turnout I am not the only individual interested in this event.

There were three parts of this event. The radical designers were competing for an award based on their theory, material and ability to make their creativity come to life from drawn form. These designers were judged by individuals that have a background in fashion, creativity and events. There was also a portion of the show dedicated to the workshop designers. These individuals participated in a series of courses that focused on the ins and outs of fashion. This forum was for these students to showcase there completed work. In the third part of the show the fashion showcase designers introduced their talent. These designers were able to show some pieces from there collection.

The spotlight of these individual sections complemented one another. The arrangement of the show invited the audience to see the development of a fashion designer. There was usage of difficult fabrics such as silks and chiffons, as well as simple cottons and other textile materials. Unlike many of your couture shows, many if not all of these designs could be worn in a normal everyday setting. This collection of designs definitely puts a new spin on Ready –To –Wear. I was caught up in a sea of cake layered dresses, pencil skirts and tailored high waist trousers. I was enticed by the funky hairstyles and flawless and dramatic makeup. if being taken away by the designs and the appearance wasn’t enough, I am proud to report that there was not a size 0 in sight, all models appeared healthy and surprisingly happy(not an emotion that is often seen on the runway).

I sat in awe when I finally saw the designers stand along side their work. Some of these brilliant needle handlers are as young as thirteen. It is truly delightful to see young people given an opportunity like this to showcase their work and to be introduced to fashion so early in their lives. After such an exciting evening that left the crowd wanting more you would think it was over. Following the event the audience was then encouraged to meet the designers in the Cockpit Theatre foyer for networking and press involvement. Overall the talent and energy represented at this showcase was a one I have never experienced before. As a veteran of fashion shows and the fashion scene, I was expecting to see clones of the high street and models that were allergic to food; I am pleased to say I was proved utterly wrong. I will be in attendance next year and anyone that wants an insight to creative and unique fashion will be sitting with me.

To view this and upcoming events please see
www.blackfashiondesignersnetwork.com
www.youngdesignerawards.com