A big-shout goes to Leeds College of Art BA (Hons) Fashion second year fashion students - Amy Thomson and Anna Twyford, who were recently selected to showcase their work at the Northern Youth Fashion Show on 29th January 2016 at York University.
Along with other finalist students from universities across Northern England and Scotland, Amy and Anna’s finished creations formed an audacious contemporary fashion show worthy of special guest, editor in chief of US Vogue, Anna Wintour.
During a memorable introductory speech, the iconic fashion journalist reflected upon the industry’s responsibility to consider the power of fashion and design and its wider landscape, noting, “I urge everyone here to remember how important it is, at whatever stage of life, to get outside of yourself and your own ambitions and to think about how to help those who are less fortunate.”
Meanwhile, the overall concept of the show focused on celebrating revolutionised northern subcultures and their ever demand fight for non-conformity. This was complemented by ruthless and challenging designs ranging from Amy’s delicate translucent dress to Anna’s twisted tailored jacked, as models revolted against conformed catwalk methods to freely portray the character of the garments through artistic movement. All synced to a backdrop of live DJ sounds and eclectic visuals which bounced the 1000 + audience.
The successful event helped to raise £50,000 for Xavier Project and Refugee Action York who will dedicate the proceeds to the running of schools, mentoring and job creation schemes, integrating refuges and maintaining humanitarian wellbeing.
Anna Wintour with Paul Luke, Senior Lecturer BA (Hons) Fashion Leeds College of Art
