University News Last updated 15 March 2017
Final Year student Camilla Dovey is preparing to pitch a new design and trend idea to iconic sports giant Nike later this Spring, after collaborating with the international brand on her Final Major Project.
Camilla’s concept explores the five senses of the human body, and how individuals adapt and use their senses throughout sport. Creating five print designs she’s producing a visual representation of each sense, culminating in a new capsule collection of women’s sportswear.
Camilla’s inspiration to collaborate with a major brand came in her third year while undertaking a six month internship in New York with Broadway-based global design distributor, LFAmerica's.’
Camilla made the most of her time by networking and creating valuable contacts within the Fashion industry through her LinkedIn profile:
“I searched for anyone relating to Nike, Sweaty Betty, Adidas, North Face, Lululemon etc and connected with them, emailing each connection I made. It was a guessing game, but it worked! I was surprised by how quickly I received feedback.” Thanks to all her hard work and determination, Camilla has secured mentorship from Nike’s Senior Designer for Basketball, plus the opportunity to pitch her concept later this Spring.
Camilla will also be expanding her project into branded fitness and gym wear products, including yoga mats, water bottles, bags and accessories, with a dedicated website, direct marketing and branded stationery, forming part of her marketing and communications strategy. When asked what advice she’d give to future students looking to collaborate with a major fashion brand, Camilla said:
“Keep reaching out to contacts and gain any experience you can in terms of internships and competitions. Maintain all contacts you gain and try every pathway, you never know what opportunities may come from people in the industry.”