Top names speak at annual apparel conference

TOP names from the fashion industry discussed everything from making it as a new designer to the controversy of unpaid internships’ at the Department of Apparel’s annual conference.

Former fashion editor and activist Caryn Franklin and Telegraph fashion director Hilary Alexander were among the high-profile names who appeared at the event, which was named “The Big Issue” and looked at the most important matters facing students as they head out into careers in the fashion industry.

Also appearing were Jacqui Gray, Interim Director of F&F Clothing for Tesco International Sourcing, Tom Burke, assistant manager of Chanel’s flagship store on New Bond Street, designer Todd Lynn and Mark Eley of design label Eley Kishimoto.

Academics from across the world attended, with those speaking including Robert Ott, from Ryerson University in Toronto, Lynn Boorady, from the State University of New York and Karen Webster, from RMIT University in Melbourne.

“Insightful and inspiring”

Georgina Pilling, an International Fashion Promotion student who attended the conference, said: “I think it’s been really insightful.

“It’s great that they’ve got a different mix of people from different industries and countries. It’s a fantastic opportunity.”

Natalie Bannon, which is also studying International Fashion Promotion, said: “It has been really inspiring, it’s really good that we’ve got to hear from a mix of people from different aspects.

“It has given us a real insight and been a huge help when it comes to thinking about what you want to do in the future.”

Dynamic conference

Tom Burke studied International Fashion Marketing at MMU came back to give current students the benefits of his experiences being involved in the launch of the new Chanel store.

He said: “It’s been really interesting. We were given a free rein on what we want to talk about which has created a really dynamic conference.”

He added that students should keep their feet on the ground if they plan to build careers in fashion. He said: “I think students need to think about a succession plan – the reality of what the future holds. My advice would be to be humble. I think the MMU philosophy has a great attitude and you need to hold on to that in your work life, don’t become a diva.

“The course was great because it gave me an insight into lots of areas. It’s important for students to know a little about a lot so they can get involved in everything.”