University News Last updated 20 October
A Fashion Design student from Birmingham City University (BCU) has said “words can’t describe the excitement” after seeing not one, but two of his dresses on the Pride of Britain Awards red carpet this week.
Final year student Rohan Scott styled Strictly Come Dancing star Lauren Oakley and singer-songwriter Linda Harrison for the awards ceremony, which was held at Grosvenor House in London on 19 October.
The pair walked the glittering red carpet in striking sculpted dresses from a collection Rohan created in his second year at BCU.
The 22-year-old student described working with them as a wholesome experience, saying: “They were both equally so warm, welcoming and down to earth, which made the environment more engaging when I was sharing my work.”
Rohan added: “I feel an immense feeling of gratitude that I’ve been considered in this way by someone outside of the classroom.
“Having this large exposure is exciting and terrifying at the same time, and it’s an experience that I’ll be eternally grateful for.”
The opportunity to style Lauren and Linda came after both were impressed by the creativity and talent of BCU’s designers, seeing their work firsthand at various fashion shows across the country.
Birmingham-born Lauren hosted the university’s annual outdoor graduate fashion catwalk 1000 Threads earlier this year.
The Strictly pro said: “Knowing that the Pride of Britain Awards were coming up during Strictly Come Dancing, I thought it would be the perfect chance to showcase some of the fantastic work that I saw at 1000 Threads on a national level.
“Growing up in Birmingham myself, you’re quite aware that creatively a lot of things happen in London, so taking the opportunity to use my platform to help someone local in the creative industry was really important to me.
“All four dresses Rohan brought for me to try were stunning, and he was really lovely and understanding of what I wanted, and all about making me feel comfortable.”
Meanwhile, Linda viewed collections from 13 student and graduate designers from BCU at their 2026 London Fashion Week exhibit at Somerset House, which she visited alongside her husband, BCU Chancellor and Paralympian, Ade Adepitan MBE.
The singer said: “It was a privilege to be given the opportunity to wear this one-of-a-kind dress by young rising talent Rohan Scott. I felt like a warrior princess.
“Rohan was a joy to work with. I was feeling nervous for the fitting as I’m still adjusting to my new body post-children, and he made me feel so calm and confident. His warmth for people combined with such a clear talent and dedication to his work is a rare combination that I’m sure will take him far.
“Judging by the reaction I got from the attendees last night Rohan’s going to have superstars falling over themselves to wear his designs on the red carpet!”
From catwalks to international shows to red carpets, this is the latest achievement for the talented BCU Fashion community.
“The fact that Rohan has been identified for this amazing opportunity is testament to his skill and drive as an emerging designer,” said Dean Fallon, Course Leader and Senior Lecturer in Fashion Design.
“Rohan’s craftsmanship is being recognised, and their work already shows a strong sense of identity and positioning.”
Image: Strictly Come Dancing Pro Lauren Oakley and Fashion Design student Rohan Scott. Credit: BCU