Fashion Show

This year’s Casual Couture Fashion show was, once again, a successful evening, thanks to the pupils who worked extremely hard on their projects and our supportive parents, whose presence was appreciated. The evening was full of cheer for the products on display and also for our gracious models, who were professional in promoting the textile products on the catwalk.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The mini project that Year 10 complete is part of the controlled assessment set by the examination board. They had to design and make a black dress, taking inspiration from Chanel’s ‘Little Black Dress’ and de Stjil Art. There had to be a matching fascinator.

The work of the pupils was outstanding, because they showed a range of creativity.

In the second session of the evening there was a display of all work by Year 10 and Year 12 students, which included our partnership students from Borlase and Beaconsfield schools. The task set by the examination board was to select an existing product and improve it.

At the beginning of the academic year, a visit was made to the ‘Knitting and Stitching Show 2014’ at the Alexander Palace. This provided inspiration from the different textiles artists displaying their work there. From there Brent Cross shopping Centre was visited to look at existing products on the market. .

Back in the classroom, students brainstormed a range of ideas. After researching they began designing their product. The whole cohort acquired a wide variety of skills including: draping on the stand; pattern cutting; surface decoration; and the use of CAD/CAM in manufacturing textiles products. For many this was their first attempt at making a garment, so GMS are very proud of the results on the catwalk.

Models on the catwalk wore an example of the original garment, two full size modifications, and the final the chosen modified version. Those who were modelling were extremely happy to wear all the products, and the audience response when they saw the final outcome was extremely enthusiastic, proving that the students had really achieved their purpose.

The third session of the evening was dominated by Year 13. Their products have always been the cream of the event. This part of the evening shows the extent to which GMS students have developed in confidence and expertise over the seven years of studying design technology. In addition, it shows off the progress made by students over a two year A-level course.

All of the finished products were outstanding in all respects. The response of our audience was very humbling to watch as they witnessed the level of creativity, skill and technical detail visible on all the garments. The products showcased the relentless effort and time our students invested in making their product as good as it could be.

Sometimes there were tears of frustration, but seeing the wide beaming smiles of each candidate as they finished their garment made Miss Agbozo’s job worthwhile and fulfilling.

From the beginning to the end it is always a very long journey for the students. For the staff supporting them being back stage is one of the most rewarding experience ever: students need to be calmed as their excitement builds. Everyone involved is so proud as the models walk down the red carpet wearing garments GMS students have designed and made.

GMS are very grateful to Mr Ross who was a great compère. The evening was packed with fun. Everyone is delighted with the outcome.

Stacey English (This is a garment based on the production of Hairspray, which reflects the setting of the story in New York using Origami to reflect the buildings)

Grace (This is a garment which fuses Eastern designs and culture with Western designs and culture)