Fashion students from Staffordshire University have created a bespoke outfit fit for the stage for music artist Faith Vern
Faith Vern models the winning outfit [credit Faith Vern]
“The designers really understood my style and pushed it further to create an outfit worthy of the stage. I felt confident wearing it because the fit was perfect for my body shape. I enjoyed the whole process and can’t wait to see what they do next.
Faith is lead singer of the Manchester punk trio PINS and recently launched a solo project, The Faux Faux.
Second year BA (Hons) Fashion students worked in pairs to research and design a directional outfit inspired by their muse and Faith selected her favourite. The winning outfit was a top designed by Alka Varghese and trousers by Bogdan Dobas which feature rockstar flares that amplify the artist's electrifying stage presence.
Thoughtful details such as a guitar pick mini pocket and creative fastenings allow for quick costume changes and unrestricted movement during dynamic performances.
“Working with Faith Vern provided valuable learning experiences, enhancing our skills in client communication, teamwork, and creative problem-solving,” commented Alka. “This accomplishment not only marks a significant milestone in our academic journey but also sets a strong foundation for our future professional achievements.’’
Fellow winner Bogdan said: “Through collaborative sessions, I crafted a bold design that perfectly matched the artist's energy and persona. I'm incredibly proud that my design was chosen and it pushed my creativity to new heights as I interpreted the client's artistic vision and fused rockstar with wearable, high-fashion elements. It was a fun, transformative learning opportunity that I'll always cherish.”
As part of winning the competition the students received the unique opportunity to have their work photographed by Faith herself.
“The designers really understood my style and pushed it further to create an outfit worthy of the stage,” Faith said. “I felt confident wearing it because the fit was perfect for my body shape. I enjoyed the whole process and can’t wait to see what they do next.”
Fashion Lecturer Ange Devoti added: ‘‘The students had a unique opportunity to design for Faith Vern who intertwines such a diverse range of music influences and other cultural hybrids within her work. With a rich tapestry of reference points including, French New Wave Cinema of Jean Luc Goddard, style icon Edie Sedgwick through to Vern’s collaboration with Iggy Pop, gave students endless avenues of research to devour along with analysing and interpreting the artists song lyrics, all helped to generate some really strong individual concepts and designs. Congratulations to the winners, Alka and Dan!’’
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Winners Alka Varghese and Bogdan Dobas