CASE STUDY – Q&A

BA (hons) Fashion and Textiles | Sophie Sprittles | Year 3 | Age: 22 | Previous course: Colchester, Foundation Level 3 | Work Experience: Harrods of London | Specialism: Fashion

Why did you choose to study on the Fashion and Textiles programme at Colchester?

I chose the course at Colchester because I wanted to study Fashion and Textiles collectively, as I feel it is important for a fashion designer to have a technical understanding and creative ability in both areas. I was attracted to the friendly working environment, small year groups, approachable tutors and the department’s industry connections, as well as the connivence of close proximity to home and easy commute to London.

What do you think the benefits have been studying close to home?

Studying close to home has been especially beneficial finically. My student debt is significantly less due to living at home during my degree, and I was able to keep my part time job, run a car and be close to friends and family while studying. The connivence of living at home meant I had more time to focus on my degree and could afford to fund my studies.

What aspects of the course have you found challenging?

I found giving presentations the most challenging aspect, however over the course of three years my presentation skills have significantly improved and I have grown in confidence. Through the course I gave regular presentations as part of module assessments and had the opportunity to present my work to industry professionals, as well as participating in frequent group crib sessions. This enabled me to develop and refine my presentation skills. As a third year I now feel confident and experienced in a skill which I feel is vital in industry.

How has it been juggling deadlines and coping with the workload?

I found the workload manageable while maintaining good time management and organisation skills, which I developed on the course. This helped to juggle deadlines effectively, which are staggered throughout the year.

How have you found the assessment process?

The assessment process is well informed. At the beginning of each semester we are aware of the learning objectives and grading criteria, so it is clearly understood what is required to complete each module successfully. The grading is always received with thorough critical feedback.

Has the feedback helped you to develop your potential as a designer?

The frequent and constructive feedback I received throughout the course enable me to understand how exactly to develop and refine my work in order to achieve the best possible outcome, and therefore continuously work to strengthen and push my potential as a designer.

How has your work developed during your 3 years of study?

The progression of my creative work throughout the degree has been enriched by an understanding and experimentation of technical processes and working methods. After thoroughly exploring both fashion and textiles techniques in first year, I developed a strong interest in fashion construction. As my work evolved I began to challenge boundaries and explore more alternative fashion design.

Where do you find inspiration?

I am inspired by industrial architecture, city environments and machinery. In pre-collection, went to the science museum to look at aircraft and space mechanics. I also use WGSN to take inspiration from current trends and develop a current design concept. I look at interesting technical garments such as ski suits and CP Company jackets. This informs my design process – taking inspiration for construction, materials and design details. I also take inspiration from current collections and high fashion retail – I often visit Dover Street Market. My favourite designers are Craig Green and Vetements.

Tell us about your process, how do you develop your ideas?

I begin by refining my research to a series of selected imagery, creating visual moodboards of references for each look in my range plan. I allocate sourced fabrics, design details and components to each outfit, beginning to develop fashion ideas through drawing and collage. I design multiple variations of each outfit. I support my design development by exploring materials through modelling on the stand and sampling elements such as pockets, seams and construction techniques.

How would you describe your work, what makes it unique?

My work is innovative, trend-aware and high-fashion focused. I use alternative materials and extreme design detailing to create an extreme and often futuristic aesthetic.

As well as design and technical skills how have you developed as a person over the 3 year course?

I have grown in confidence, both personally and in my ability to succeed in my discipline. In third year especially, I became professional and independent in my learning approach – the final major project enabled to me to manage all aspects of my project and put all my skills and knowledge gained on the course into practice.

Looking back what has been the highlight of the course for you so far?

A highlight was being shortlisted for the Nicole Abbott Award. I had the opportunity to present my pre-collection to Sir Paul Smith, receive feedback on my work and visit his studios in London,

Tell us about the Industry Mentoring scheme and how it has worked for you?

The Industry Mentoring Scheme links each third year student with an industry professional. I was lucky to have worked with my mentor during my internship. I have had regular contact with my mentor throughout my third year, receiving feedback on my FMP and vital advice about career progression. The mentoring scheme successfully breaches the gap between university and industry, creating valuable contacts and opportunities for graduating students.

Have you completed any work experience ?

I worked as Design Intern for Harrod’s private label in a three month internship, which enabled me to apply and develop my skills in an industry environment, while gaining a strong understanding of the design process in a luxury fashion brand. My internship lead to a graduate job opportunity, I will be returning to work in a design role at Harrods of London when I finish my degree.

How has the course prepared you for your next step into the world of work?

I found during my internship that the design process we learn on the course is very similar industry practice. The industry project in Year 2 especially enables students to understand how to design for a commercial brief. We learn digital design skills such as Photoshop and Illustrator, which are vital to working in industry. Students are encouraged to seek internship opportunities during the course, which alongside the mentoring scheme significantly helped me to feel ready to work in an industry environment.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of applying to Colchester?

I would definitely encourage anyone thinking to applying to Colchester to seriously consider the course. I have throughly enjoyed my time at Colchester and I feel the course is unique in the sense that we have a huge amount of contact with tutors, which I believe helps students to be so successful on the course.

What advice would you give to someone that has been offered a place on the course?

I would advise anyone accepted to take the place. I have found studying Fashion and Textiles at Colchester has provided me with a diverse an enriched degree, while thoroughly preparing me to confidently progress into career in industry.