Experiments in Fashion is a project aimed at 15-25yr old fashion designers from Northumberland, initiated by Inspire Northumberland, in partnership with Northumberland County Council and London College of Fashion.

The aim of the project is to create exciting and innovative designs inspired by the landscape and architecture of six market towns within Northumberland – Alnwick, Amble, Berwick, Haltwhistle, Seahouses and Wooler.

The project began with a four day intensive fashion workshop at Woodhorn Museum, Archives and Country Park in July 2008 where a group of young designers were supported by tutors from London College of Fashion and international designer Wayne Hemingway of Hemingwaydesign, co founder of Red or Dead.

Three of the most promising young designers were then chosen to take part in a three month mentorship with Wayne Hemingway, which began with a one week visit to Hemingwaydesign in London in November 2008. Liam Hunter, Kay Bowey and Jodie Brady were given three months to create a collection of work inspired by the six market towns.

Other young designers were given the opportunity to create a further piece to be exhibited at the Biscuit Factory alongside these new collections. The exhibition saw the collections come alive through a fashion catwalk show choreographed by Jamila Rodriguez as part of The Late Shows 2009.

A tour of the work by nine of the young designers then followed , showcasing the work in each of the market towns in a fashion shoot style approach. The images created were showcased as part of an exhibition at Woodhorn Museum, Archives and Country Park in September 2009 as well as becoming part of a fashion/tourism publication to celebrate the success of the project.

Due to its huge success the project also went on to be exhibited at The Alnwick Garden from January - February 2009.

'Participating in the Experiments in Fashion project allowed me to work in a creative environment and learn about a conceptual approach to fashion design. The tutors encouraged innovation and full exploration of each idea, leading to the production of a final garment. I gained many new skills and techniques during the intensive week, and the project confirmed my desire to pursue a career in fashion, I am now going to study Fashion Design (Womenswear) at Central Saint Martins in London.' 

Lauren Duncan, young designer

 

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