SOUTH Essex College organised a fantastic fashion filled event last night at the Basildon Fashion Awards.
Level 3 Fashion Design students from the College’s Southend Campus together with the Eastgate Shopping Centre plus stylist to the stars and former student, Joey Bevan, showcased collections on the catwalk.
The event, held at the Towngate Theatre in Basildon, also gave local school students the opportunity to get involved and have their designs displayed.
Students from schools such as The Fitzwimarc School in Rayleigh, St Clere’s School in Standford-le-Hope and James Hornsby School in Basildon originally entered a competition run by the College. The brief was to design an outfit that represented cultural society and the top three finalists were announced on the night.
Holly Arch, 15, who studies at the King John School in Thundersley, was crowned the overall winner of the awards for her Instagram inspired dress.
Holly, from Westcliff-on-Sea, said: “I’m a little bit overwhelmed and shocked. My main motivation for the dress was reflecting social media culture.
“I’m studying GCSE Textiles, a potential career in fashion could be on the cards now. Winning this competition has given me a real confidence boost.”
Joey Bevan, who was born in Basildon and studied Fashion Design at the College, now styles celebrities and works internationally in the fashion industry. He presented two exclusive collections during the evening, ‘Wolves’ and ‘Castaway.’
Joey said: “I want to help young people and give them opportunities because I never had this kind of industry support when I was starting out. I started at the bottom and had to work my way up. My main advice for anyone trying to make it in the fashion world would be to never give up!”
The Eastgate Shopping Centre in Basildon partners with the College every year to put on this excellent event. Collections from Debenhams including casual, prom and swimwear were shown on the evening.
Mike Horton, Marketing Manager of the Centre, said: “The event grows every year and goes from strength to strength. It showcases and celebrates the fantastic new fashion talent that exists throughout the region, and we love giving students a platform to present their creations.”
Former Voice contestant, Leanne Jarvis and previous X-Factor hopeful, Parisa, entertained the audience in-between collections. Level 3 Music students from the College also treated guests to musical performances during the interval.
For more information about Fashion courses at the College, visit www.southessex.ac.uk
