Being part of the event not only provides creatives with the opportunity to network with like-minded people and be included in a national marketing campaign but also the chance to have their collections professionally styled, modelled and featured in a stunning runway show. Managing Director, Mark Bewick, said: “We’ve created a platform that can make noise, delight the audience, but also give the designers valuable experience and assets. Designers will leave this event with beautiful videos and photography of their work and strong connections with a network of fashion professionals.”
York Fashion Week launched in 2018 in a bid to empower and champion grass roots and independent designers that are revolutionising the fashion scene to showcase their latest collections. Its focus centres on bringing together a community of talented creatives, fashionistas, stylists and volunteers passionate about flying the flag for fashion in the North of England, and making an impact in the fashion industry.
Tendai Murairwa, a former NHS Sewing Room Assistant, who took part in York Fashion Week earlier this year explained: “I’m currently a freelance costume design trainee for film and television and I’m the owner of Teestyletribe – a brand specialising in multi-way clothing utilising African print. Launching my collection at York Fashion Week gave me the confidence to quit my role in the NHS and focus solely on building my fashion business. The support shown by the organisers was phenomenal and provided me with the opportunity to reach a broader audience and celebrate diversity within the industry.”
Elizabeth Kynaston, a freelance fashion designer who debuted her very first collection which was created during Covid at York Fashion Week in April added: “To network through York Fashion Week has been invaluable and I’ve met some inspiring creators who have provided me with further impetus and confidence to follow my dream and create my own brand which will be an eclectic mix of ready to wear and couture pieces. I can’t thank the organisers enough for staging such an incredible event, providing me with the opportunity to showcase my creations and help kick start my career in the fashion industry.”