An aspiring fashion designer from Farndon has been named a finalist in a competition, which has attracted global attention.
Lili Sipeki, 17, who is originally from Hungary, is one of 21 entrants who have been shortlisted to create and showcase their designs at The Liberty Shopping Centre Catwalk Show in Romford on Friday, May 27.
Finalists in the competition, who range from budding students through to established designers, were tasked with designing an innovative women’s or menswear garment, which reflects what style means to them, and creating a Pinterest mood board outlining their concept.
Lili’s Anika floor length dress design has an elegant high neckline and includes hints of colour, through geometrical patterns that stand out against black mesh.
She said: “I cannot believe I have been selected as a finalist! It is a great challenge and opportunity for me and I can’t wait to see my designs come to life at the fashion show at the end of May.”
Now in its seventh year, the competition - run by The Liberty Shopping Centre in conjunction with M&S - has received a record number of entries with designs flooding in from as far afield as Turkey, Japan and Australia.
Following the catwalk show, one lucky finalist will be crowned The Liberty Fashion Designer of the year 2016 and will win a £1,000 injection into starting up a business or furthering their design career, which can go towards marketing, purchasing equipment or fabrics, hiring models for shows or attending key fashion events. They will also receive a trophy, plus expert business advice from M&S.
Following its popularity last year, the ‘People’s Choice Award’ will also return for a second year, the winner of which will receive a trophy, £100 gift card for The Liberty and a pair of gold tickets to London Fashion Weekend in September.
To vote for Lili, click here
