University News Last updated 29 June 2022
Leading figures from the fashion, business and creative industries gathered for a catwalk event celebrating the talents of Birmingham City University’s students and graduates.
‘THE CATWALK: BCU in Digbeth’ took place yesterday (June 29) at Birmingham’s The Mill, showcasing the designs of the University’s Birmingham Institute of Jewellery, Fashion and Textiles.
Over 100 guests from across industries and sectors - including designers, buyers, and experts from Burbo K’Ture, Next, Superdry, Zara, and Christian Louboutin - flocked to Digbeth to view the latest high-end fashion collections produced by the University’s Fashion students and graduates. The event also included a state-of the-art digital exhibition and displays of designs created by the University’s Jewellery and Textiles students and graduates.
Head of Birmingham City University’s Birmingham Institute of Jewellery, Fashion and Textiles, Lee Lapthorne, said: “Our event came hot on the heels of our students’ work being featured at both Graduate Fashion Week and New Designers in London, and it was an absolute pleasure to showcase their work once more, this time in the heart of our city’s creative district and a stone’s throw from out City Centre campus.
Interim Pro Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean at Birmingham City University, Professor Lawrence Zeegen, added: “Our catwalk event was just one of the many ways we work to ensure our students gain the maximum exposure to industry, equipping them with the hands-on practical skills to go on to have successful careers.
“We are proud that so many of our staff come from an industry background and bring a wealth of skills, knowledge, and experience to our University, providing our students with the latest thinking, creativity and professional networks.
The catwalk event is part of an extensive and exciting programme of events being held by the University this year as it celebrates its BCU 2025 Strategy. The events programme brings to life the work of the University and its mission to be the University for Birmingham, enabling the personal transformation of individuals, employers, and society through excellence in practice-based education, research and knowledge exchange.