University News Last updated 20 February 2009
Supermodel Erin O'Connor will be proudly wearing a coat designed by a Birmingham City University graduate at London Fashion Week (which runs until Wednesday, February 25).
Erin fell in love with the garment when she supported a showcase of Birmingham City University student fashion and design - and commissioned a bespoke copy.
The stylish black coat was designed by fashion design graduate Amy Lappin and is made from 100 per cent Angora wool.
Erin, Vice-Chair of London Fashion Week, has promised to don the coat as she performs her VIP duties, taking front row place at prestigious catwalk shows which will attract international media coverage.
Erin was born near Walsall, on the outskirts of Birmingham and was spotted by a modeling scout while on school trip to the Birmingham Clothes Show.
"We are delighted that Erin loved the cutting edge designs she discovered at Birmingham City University," said Joanna Birch, Head of Corporate Relations at the University.
"This just highlights that Birmingham City University is a hotbed of creative talent - and we are very proud that one of our designs will be worn by a fashion icon like Erin O'Connor."
Britain's leading designers will be celebrating 25 years of London Fashion Week which opens today (Friday, February 20) in the capital. The glitzy event is one most prestigious and influential fashion showcases in the world.