Catching up with Level 3 Fashion Textiles Alumni
We love hearing what our students go on to do when they leave the MET. We recently caught up with Sophia and Lucy who, since leaving us, have gone on to have successful careers in the fashion industry.
Tell us about your time at the MET
Sophia: Studying at Northbrook College gave me the opportunity to discover and develop my own unique style. During my time on the Level 3 Fashion and Textiles course, I was given the freedom to experiment and push my abilities while working in an exquisite range of technical facilities. This allowed me to explore different avenues and learn a variety of new skills. I’m incredibly grateful for the amazing staff that put so much time and effort into me and my work. They helped me to believe in both myself and my capabilities which gave me the confidence to work to my highest potential.
The two invaluable things that I learnt from my time at Northbrook College are that firstly, art doesn’t have to be perfect. I now realise that there are no mistakes and only discoveries in art. Secondly, I have learnt to be stubborn and stick with my individual style of work. I was taught that it was okay to not fit in with others and to celebrate my organic drawing style and eccentric take on digital print.
Lucy: I studied the UAL Level 3 Diploma and Extended Diploma at Northbrook College from 2014 onwards and can wholeheartedly say that it was one of the best decisions that I have ever made. From the beginning, I was given the facilities and support to flourish creatively. I wasn’t sure that I wanted to follow a design pathway, and the tutors gave me the flexibility to answer briefs in a way that would suit my skill set and portfolio development. From print workshops, life drawing classes, technical sessions and an outstanding library, as well as use of an Apple Mac suite and the opportunity to collaborate with other courses, I was truly taught so much.
What did you do next?
Sophia: Upon leaving Northbrook College with a Distinction, I went on to study BA Printed Textiles at Winchester School of Art. I graduated in 2019, and I have been devoting my time to honing my craft and developing my signature style. Since finishing university, I have exhibited my work twice at Première Vision in Paris and won a Pattern Award sponsored by Liberty London, two achievements of which I am particularly proud.
Lucy: I went on to study BA Fashion Promotion at Ravensbourne University London and graduated with first class honours in 2019. I have had many brilliant opportunities including interviewing renowned Danish fashion designer Henrik Vibskov and celebrity stylist Roger K Burton, working at Paris Men's Fashion Week, assisting on campaigns for Daily Paper and Hugo Boss, interning for Stylist Magazine and FGUK Magazine and working at creative agency The Honest Brand for clients globally.
What are you doing now?
Sophia: I am now a self-employed Print Designer and Artist based in Chichester, West Sussex. I create and sell my own artworks and work on bespoke commissions for my clients. My creativity has been recognised by several notable high street and luxury brands such as Zara and Anthropologie. I am also the designer and co-founder for the Colour Show, a printed lifestyle brand which sells an exclusive range of luxury cushions and silk scarves.
Lucy: I am currently working as a Content Strategist for a London based beauty e-commerce platform and also freelance for the iconic brand Lipcote & Co. I am part of a creative collective called The Advisory &, and also have my own business selling my art work.
How would you sum up your time at the MET?
Sophia: Northbrook College and the tutors that taught me will always have a very special place in my heart. I am very happy to still be in contact with them, and very thankful to have been given the opportunity to host an online workshop with their students. This was a rewarding experience that meant I got to share my skills with like-minded creative individuals through the medium of teaching. I hope to be back in the future to share more of my knowledge with the next generation of students.
Lucy: If I hadn’t followed my heart aged 16 and been under the incredible guidance of the tutors at Northbrook College, I wouldn’t have had the confidence to follow my dreams. I also made lifelong friends during my time there. I have a debt forever owed to the wonderful souls that teach on the Fashion & Textile Diploma course, who continue to dedicate their time and energy to the future of creativity.