Northumbria University’s show was exciting across the spectrum, with mens and womenswear, knitwear and prints all looking strong. Ranging from dramatic to vibrantly colourful, through to the precise and subtle – it was a show filled with stellar collections.

Naomi New’s opener in black and white saw warrior women storming the catwalk, with some impressive leather pieces featuring huge shoulders, spikes, studs and real human hair.

We loved Ludmila Maida’s gloriously vibrant prints, showcased in floaty bohemian shapes, evoking carefree summers.

Making a big impact with her excellent cutting, Holly Farrar created a beautiful womenswear collection in black, which deserves high praise for innovative yet understated pieces.

Rachel Hewson revealed her delicate and hugely covetable fine knits. Understated but simply beautiful shapes, with tucked and gathered details; we predict a queue to snap up this talented young designer.

Ledina Zhang’s knitwear was an extrovert, individual blast of coloured stripes, tempered by cooling shades of grey. Shapes were cosy and cocooning with pieces for both men and women.

Gemma Williamson mixed space-age styling with ‘stained glass’ inspired prints for a wonderfully ‘off-the-wall’ mix.

Menswear was excellent, with Sian Griffiths, Stacey Beggs and Fiona McCauley particularly memorable. McCauley has already been snapped up by Abercrombie and Fitch and starts work with them soon.

Finally, the finale was Victoria Kirby’s sculptural, 21st Century eveningwear. Beautiful ‘moulded’ satin shapes in cool metallic shades of satin, with asymmetric draped features. Paraded on statuesque models sporting messed and matted hair, this was a great look for 21st Century glamour.

Image credits: Photography by Simon Armstrong

Northumbria University on ARTSTHREAD

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