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Brighton fashion student in London Fashion Week final

Published 16 February 2010

A University of Brighton student has beaten hopefuls from 34 universities nationwide to win a coveted place in this year's Fashion Awareness Direct (FAD) final competition, to be held at London’s Fashion Week on Monday 22 February.

Fashion with business student, Steven Woodward, was selected from more than 100 entrants and is one of 14 finalists who will see their designs showcased on the catwalk.

Described by Vogue.com as an "undeniable springboard" for the next generation of talent, the FAD competition identifies the most promising new designers and provides them with a unique opportunity to showcase their work to an international audience of media and buyers at the capital’s most important fashion event.

To mark the turning of a new decade, FAD asked students to look back and explore the concept of memory to create a fashion legacy for future generations. Each finalist will have two outfits in the final – one inspired by personal memory, and the other inspired by the narrative of collective memories and objects.

The brief has led many finalists to look to their own family history for inspiration. Steven Woodward's 'Nona' collection is dedicated to the experiences of his grandmother, Edith. Orphaned at 11, she was sent to Vancouver where she worked in domestic service during World War 1.

Designs by Steven Woodward

"Lace making and handicraft was her devotion and it is this work which has become the focus of my designs. The knit and hand knit techniques I have used play on the stereotypical role of women as knitters. I wanted to celebrate this tradition while taking it forward and exploring new ideas," said Steven.

The jury panel who will select the winners this year includes Linda Grant, Author of The Thoughtful Dresser; Sonnet Stanfill, Curator of 20th-Century and Contemporary Fashion, V&A; Elizabeth Mcluskie, Fashion Buyer at Harrods; John Wolford, Director of Vauxhall Fashion Scout; David Koma, designer and 2005 FAD finalist; Ana Belen Meroño, 2009 FAD winner.

The winners of the FAD Competition will be announced on Monday 22 February. The first prize is £2,000 and a top industry placement. Two runners up will receive £1,000 and a work placement.

Now in its ninth year, FAD is a creative charity that supports young people in bridging the gap between education and industry. Find out more at: www.fad.org.uk.