Designs by finalists of FASHANNE – Fashion Designers of the Future Awards have been unveiled as part of a permanent exhibition at East Midlands Airport.
The stunning 24-piece photography display shows off the designs created by final-year fashion and textile students from Universities that have participated in these prestigious awards over the years.
FASHANNE draws on the East Midlands’ great design past as the historical home of the textile, lace, shoe, silk and knitwear industries, and aims to connect a new generation of designers with industry, bridging the gap between education and employment.
These stunning awards offer its winners financial support, showcasing opportunities at the annual live show, mentoring and internships with leading companies from the world of fashion and textiles.
Just under 300 students have entered FASHANNE – Fashion Designers of the Future Award since its launch in 2016 with, to date, 13 internships offered to winners* who have gone on to take up roles in well-known companies including Alexander McQueen, All Saints, Boden, Hugo Boss, Pentland Brands, and Ted Baker to name but a few.
FASHANNE founder, Anne Davies, said:
“By connecting established world-class brands, manufacturers and retailers with the next generation, we are helping to build long-term sustainable relationships in a fiercely competitive industry, as well as helping future-proof established brands with a pipeline of new generation designers.
“We couldn’t be prouder to be showcasing the incredible design talent we have in our universities, confident that this region’s inspiring fashion legacy will continue to flourish with the help of these talented young designers.”
East Midlands Airport Customer Services and Security Director, Mike Grimes says of the exhibit:
“We’re delighted to display images from the Fashion Designers of the Future Awards which have made a big impact across our terminal.
“As the international gateway to the East Midlands, it’s great that we can provide a platform to showcase this region’s strength in fashion and textiles design.
“We hope this helps raise awareness of the great work and creativity that takes place on our doorstep.”
The exhibit will be displayed in stages throughout the Airport – with the first three already up in the Immigration Hall. More images will be going up in Departures and the West Pier from early 2023.
The next FASHANNE Awards are taking place on Thursday 22nd June 2023 at St Mary’s Church in Nottingham and is expected to attract over 300guests; previous guests have included Sir John Peace, Lord Lieutenant of Nottingham and ex-chairman of Burberry, and The Duchess of Rutland.
The evening will be hosted by the founder of FASHANNE, BBC journalist and TV presenter Anne Davies and special guest Patrick Grant, of BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee. A night of food, drinks and live entertainment, the catwalk show also features special guest models as well as exciting and emotional awards presentations.
Tickets will be available from Fashanne.com in February 2023.
