University News Last updated 30 October 2013
Searching for inspiration for the perfect Halloween costume? Two fashion design graduates from Birmingham City University may be able to help.
Natalie Hughan and Emma Warnes, former students on the Fashion Design with Design Performance course at the Birmingham Institute of Art and Design (BIAD) - part of Birmingham City University - have launched their own prosthetics and costume company - Grimm and Grizzly.
Founded during their final year of study, the talented duo design and make bespoke handcrafted garments, masks, prosthetics and props for various fantasy based events.
The business idea stemmed from the pair's final year at university. "We really enjoyed making grim and grizzly looking creatures and costumes", explained Emma, 21, from Halesowen. "We both loved working with our prosthetic's lecturer and one particular project we worked on formed the start of our love for fantasy; being able to create more than costumes, but creatures that brought fantasy to life."
Natalie and Emma have worked on costumes for numerous events, the most memorable being their first event for fantasy event company, LARP, as Natalie explains: "Having our own stall, with all our different creations on was amazing. Our proudest moment was making our very first sale of leather masks that we designed and made. Seeing people wearing our costumes is very satisfying and rewarding. We were so proud that we actually jumped around the stall in happiness!"
Always on the lookout for new ideas for the business, the duo now hope to set up an online shop where clients can order costumes and accessories.
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