University graduates work with top fashion brand

Oct. 14, 2010 - PRLog -- A team of five graduates from Coventry University is spending this autumn working with award-winning fashion designer Gavin Douglas as he prepares his spring/summer 2011 collection.

The fashion graduates are making use of the University’s state-of-the-art studios to help with research, development and production on Mr Douglas’s new designs.

Since starting his business in 2004, Birmingham-based Mr Douglas has carved a reputation for producing a unique brand of high-end fashion for women.

His ultra-chic garments – which have been worn by the likes of Kelly Rowland and Estelle – have won him a string of commendations, including Avant-Garde Designer of the Year in 2004 and the prestigious Fashion Fringe award in 2006.

Mr Douglas showcased his debut collection during the Caribbean Fashion Week in 2005 and has gone on to exhibit designs at major fashion shows in London and Paris. His brand has wholesaled to high-end stores such as Harrods and Yoox.com.

As part of the new collaboration with Coventry University, Mr Douglas is providing graduates with exclusive industry experience – including roles such as pattern cutting, print designing and garment production – while offering a series of on-campus workshops for fashion undergraduates over the next academic year.

The paid internships, which are being supported by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE), reflect the University’s increased focus on helping its students and graduates to develop their employability skills and meet the demands of today’s challenging job market.

Ann Muirhead, Head of Fashion at Coventry University, said:

“This is a fantastic opportunity for all the graduates involved. We're very excited to be collaborating with Gavin, and the department is looking forward to building a strong relationship with him from which both sides can benefit. This is also an excellent example of how the University is engaging with the business community not only to help develop research and innovation, but also to help our students and graduates progress into the world of work.”

Gavin Douglas said:

“Coventry University has some of the most advanced technology and machinery used within the fashion industry. It's fantastic for me to have access to this machinery to develop my new line. I'm looking forward to working with the fashion department and their students and graduates. The graduates are getting the opportunity to observe and actively participate in the creation of our new line of clothing, from the concept to the completed garment which I'm sure they'll agree will be an exciting experience.”



For further information and images, please contact Alex Roache, Communications Assistant, Coventry University, on 024 7679 5050 or email alex.roache@coventry.ac.uk.

# # #

The External Communications team from Coventry University promotes a wide range of initiatives, services, success stories and other related aspects of Higher Education and the achievements of its staff and students as well as comment pieces from experts.