Seven SVP Designer of the Year finalists from Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) were selected to showcase their work at the Fashion SVP Fair in London, the UK sourcing event that connects brands and retailers with international manufacturers and suppliers.
Seven BA (Hons) Fashion students and graduates from AUB were selected as finalists and exhibited their work in the Design of the Year Showcase.
Katy Reilly, Kalia Tu, Jennifer Ross, Kathy Thai, Maeve Dean, Kyra Gibson, and Melissa Staple all showcased garments and work-in-progress to industry professionals and panel judges from prominent brands such as Louis Vuitton and Vivienne Westwood.
“We were delighted to be selected to show off our work to international industry," says current third-year student Katy. "It was super interesting to visit the expo and see how different manufacturers communicate and the niches each of them has.
"It was very exciting to see manufacturers and other people within the fashion industry admiring our garments and a great opportunity to share the concepts behind our pieces.”
“This was a fantastic opportunity to be part of a such a recognised exhibition," adds El Crehan, Course Leader on BA (Hons) Fashion. "With seven students selected we were very proud to have a strong AUB Fashion presentation alongside other leading UK universities.
"The students got a massive boost of confidence from this especially because they submitted first and second year work due to the timing of the competition.”
Returning to Olympia London for its 18th edition, the trade show ran from 18–19 November and saw exhibitors descend from over 30 countries, with everything from European ateliers to Asian manufacturers present to represent major garment producing areas.
Speaking on this latest edition, Ralph Goodstone, director of Fashion SVP, says, “Fashion SVP has been an incredible showcase of creativity, innovation, and quality this year. From the fashion show to our seminars and networking programme, the energy on the floor was fantastic. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for the 19th edition in April 2026.”
