A student on the University of Kent’s BA (Hons) Fashion course, a School of Music and Fine Art franchised course delivered at the Tonbridge campus of West Kent College, has won a top national design prize. Cripa Yangkhrung won the Hainsworth Statement Award, worth £1,000, at the prestigious New Designers expo in London with her handmade fashion collection inspired by nature and its elements, Earthen Solidity, chosen from amongst the thousands on show.
Commented Cripa: “I never dreamed I’d be selected – and am beyond happy and honoured. I’ve always worked really hard and now feel this has paid off. I hope the fact they picked me offers inspiration to subsequent students.”
The award is for the most creative and innovative used of a cloth or fabric in a finished product, demonstrating a flair for fresh new ideas. In addition to the prize of either cash, Hainsworth cloth or a combination of both to a value of £1000, the winner is invited to visit the prestigious Hainsworth Mill, whose cloth is used for the ceremonial uniforms worn by the Royal Family during state occasions and the military uniforms worn during the Charge of the Light Brigade.
The judges cited imagination, innovation, versatility, and good use of fabrics as reasons for selection, saying: “Cripa’s work shows excellent vision and concept, complimented with exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship, resulting in a capsule collection that speaks of a longevity within the fashion industry and a bright and exciting future.”
Her collection consists of androgynous garments created by free-form pattern-cutting. Using locally-sourced wool fabrics with buttons she made out of wood, the collection promotes and supports a sustainable fashion industry.
Cripa Yangkhrung wasn’t the only student who sparked interest at New Designers. Heather Thunstrom was approached by Wilkinsons for their textiles department; Charlie Bidois was selected to the final three from hundreds of entries in a competition to design a label for Absolut Vodka, a major sponsor of New Designers. Curtis Ferris was approached after the College fashion show by a costume design company, who have offered him an internship.
School of Music and Fine Art Lecturer and Partner College Liaison Officer, Tim Meacham said, “This is a huge achievement – the awards are a testament to the students, the quality of teaching and the dedication of the staff.”
Links for more info: http://www.newdesigners.com/exhibitors/new-designers-hainsworth-statement-award
http://www.newdesigners.com/sponsoranaward/new-designers-hainsworth-statement-award-2016