Arts University College Bournemouth
This year’s GFW stand award went to the Arts University College Bournemouth, with runners-up Bradford College and the University of Leeds.
Arts University College of Bournemouth
Upon arriving at the winning stand you are caught between the idea of stepping into a posh London boutique or that of a white wash honeycomb structure. Either way the stand works well as a showcase. The outer walls of the stand are created out of wooden panels, making geometric patterns, with students’ portfolios slotted onto these structures, creating instant shelving.
Inside, the garments are displayed on white mannequins. Flat screens and sleek apple macs showcase art films of the collections, which stand out – it’s great to see the collections portrayed in this artistic way. Its appearance is busy, yet in a clean and sterile fashion, showcasing the garments and creations over a range of structures, making it understandable as to why this beautiful stand won the award this Graduate Fashion Week.
Bradford College
Bradford College
Bradford College chose a homely and welcoming approach to showcasing their students’ collections. The stand was laid out as a living room, complete with sofas and a mantlepiece. Highly patriotic, the stand was decorated with a Union Jack flag.
The white walls had the names of the collections drawn onto them, giving the feel of an eclectic and out-of-line bookshelf, whilst the garments themselves hung on rails towards the back of the stand. The portfolios were lined up on stands and on a table towards the end of the stand. The whole stand gave the feeling of the pride of Britain (especially with the World Cup fast approaching). Our Union Jack flag was emblazoned on the walls and the overall feeling was of stepping into a traditional English family’s living room, making this easily one of the most comfortable and welcoming stands to visit.
University Of Leeds
University Of Leeds
This university chose a simple yet effective approach. A long table was lined with student’s portfolios and along its length also appeared images of the workrooms where the students created their collections. The actual collections were also showcased on mannequins. The stand was simple yet showcased the collections in an effective way and with the backdrop of the workrooms; there was a sentimental touch to the graduates’ journey.
