The International Fashion Showcase (IFS) 2015, which takes place in London, will see one hundred and ten (110) emerging designers from nearly thirty (30) countries showcase at what has been termed, ‘the largest public fashion exhibition of its kind’. Through the efforts of the British Council and the British Fashion Council, this annual event, which is now in its fourth year, is free and open to the public from February 20th- 24th during London Fashion Week.

 

'Next In Line' - a new platform introduced for the IFS 2015 - features ten (10) designers who have been nominated by fashion institutes and the British Fashion Council. These designers, who are themselves emerging talent from their respective countries, will also be exposed to mentorship sessions with fashion professionals. 

 

Adrian Foster, a graduate of The University of Trinidad and Tobago’s Caribbean Academy of Fashion and Design, was selected to be a part of this new installation. Adrian’s journey as a designer which has led to his presence at London Fashion Week is chronicled in the following link: Click here.

 

Synopses of workshops stemming from this event are as follows:-

 

Seminar 1: Why Fashion Education Matters

London College of Fashion 

 

A welcome to London College of Fashion, this session addressed the role of fashion education and introduced the college, its curricula, international connections, collaborations with industry and the transition its students make from graduation to industry.

 

Professor Frances Corner who introduced “Why Fashion Matters”, referenced fashion as an immediate and intimate form of self-expression since what we wear tells the story of who we are and/or who we want to be.

 

Seminar 2: Commercialising Creativity; the Journey 

Auditorium, Brewer Street Car Park

 

In this session, Michelle De Conto, Business Support Advisor from the British Council, addressed the topic - Commercialising Creativity; the Journey.

 

Ms. De Conto explained the key elements which are needed to successfully support a fashion business and economical/forward strategies which designers should consider. She also noted the importance of understanding business growth and having a clear knowledge of all key elements of your business.

 

Seminar 3: Building a Sustainable Fashion Business

 

Globally, the growing interest and investment in sustainable fashion means that emerging brands must consider environmentalism and social responsibility in their businesses. This session gave designers an introduction into sustainable business models while considering the system from design, to sourcing, to production and sales. The session also offered advice and guidance on sustainable and ethical design.

 

Workshop: Portfolio Session with On/Off

 

This workshop entailed an intimate discussion with ON/OFF representative, Jessica Dubek, who critiqued Adrian Foster’s Portfolio and Look Book design layout. Ms. Dubek, while impressed by the contemporary design of the Shadows Ready-to-Wear look book and its contents, gave suggestions such as minimising information so as to enhance readers’ clarity and understanding. 

 

As it pertains to Adrian’s Portfolio, Ms. Dubek commented on his design aesthetic and also mentioned that Adrian should continue his experimentation with resort and sportswear as his designs conveyed a sporty ready-to-wear look. 

 

Update

Undoubtedly, Adrian Foster will serve to benefit greatly from this experience. He continues to be impressed by the invaluable information received and believes that every emerging designer needs quality feedback in order to help build a sustainable and successful brand.

 

The workshops and seminars will continue until the end of Fashion Week on February 24th, 2015.