Published: 13.06.08

The university's top fashion students hit the capital last week as Brighton took its fashion show and awards ceremony to London's Old Billingsgate.

Nineteen students showcased their designs to leading industry figures with international fashion commentator, Colin McDowell, chairing the university graduate fashion awards.

"Students are extremely creative and student fashion is the future of design," said Colin. "Brighton is not a million miles from London and people need to realise that talent is not just in the city."

The senior fashion writer for the Sunday Times also judged the Best Business Plan Award which is sponsored by London-based law firm Shadbolt & Co.

Colin said: "Fashion is about business and I'm impressed that business is at the core of the fashion courses at Brighton. It is no use having brilliant ideas, you need finance and to convince business to help."

Ellie Campagna scooped the award for her ambitious business plan to launch a luxury designer label in New York which was thoroughly researched and costed, with Sarah Carver and Karen Lambourne runners up in the category.

Colin was also impressed with the menswear collections, commenting that menswear had an exciting future with lots of opportunities for designers in this area.

Judging the catwalk collection award was Bora Aksu, the highly creative designer known for his interesting use of textures and materials. Helena Dunn took home the award for her sophisticated approach to dress design (as modelled above).

Bora said: "The cut and colours that Helena used in her collection combined bravery and effort. The designs were well cut, modern and wearable. The collection really stood out for me."

Finally, the textile award was judged by the legendary Celia Birtwell and Natalie Gibson, who has inspired and influenced many designers from Galliano to Mathew Williamson. The award was shared by Karen Lambourne and Lucy Vye.

Fashion & Textiles programme leader at the university, Malcolm McInnes said: "It was exciting to be joined by such high profile names from the fashion industry this year. The show and awards ceremony continues to grow year-on-year."