CLOTHES designing prodigies from schools and colleges across the region battled for the crown of Young Designer of the Year at the Chester Fashion Festival.
The competition, one of the highlights of the fortnight of festivities, invited students from Blacon High School, Mid Cheshire College and West Cheshire College, as well as two independent designers, to take part at The Forum shopping centre in Chester earlier this month.
Jackie Ash, headteacher at Blacon High School, said: “Fashion design is not often a career choice that our students take. However, after taking part in this competition, it has given them the confidence to know that they can follow their dreams.
“It’s been incredibly exciting for the students and they have put in a great deal of hard work. All students have learned new skills as well as having a door opened to them and another career option that they may not have considered.”
Chester Fashion co-ordinator Stephen Wundke said: “Not all students have the same opportunities and some don’t have the confidence or indeed funds to further their education to realise career dreams they may have.
“The competition is a great way to experience the glittering world of fashion and for students to put their newly-acquired design skills to the test. Chester has some excellent would-be fashion designers in waiting, and this competition could just be the one to find the next Matthew Williamson or Stella McCartney.”
