Thumbs up from French fashion chiefs

The work of a creative student at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) has caught the eye of French fashionistas.

Debbie Beardmore has been awarded second place in the Eurovet Fast Fashion competition for her recycled fabric design

The 22-year-old fashion design student, who has just completed her second year at the Preston Campus, created a multi-collar shirt using six metres of felt fabric.

Debbie, who lives in Irlam, said: “I couldn’t believe it when I heard the news that I’d done so well. I was really happy to make the shortlist of 15, so for my work to catch the eye of the judges is wonderful.

“What’s also great is I was the only person outside of France to have won any prize. That’s such a great boost for me and for my UCLan course.”

Debbie developed her prototype using collars sourced from a host of Preston’s charity shops. Her idea was a progression from a first year project she had enjoyed.

“I had great fun turning the shirts and collars into silhouettes and collages and it sent it off without any thought of winning,” said Debbie. “To then be told I’d made the shortlist and therefore would have to make the shirt using the recycled fabric was exciting but scary as I only had one week to do it.”

The former Wigan and Leigh College student, who has just started her sandwich placement year designing menswear for Visage, won 1,500 Euros. Her winning design will go on display at the CETI exhibition from September to November and a recycling congress from ECO-TLC, the official sponsor.