Fashion X launches at Manchester Fashion Institute with three exciting live briefs across Fashion Design, Fashion Communication, and Fashion Business.

Manchester Fashion Institute are excited to announce the launch of our Fashion X Live Briefs, an initiative that allows our students to collaborate with leading industry partners while working on live projects in Fashion Design, Fashion Communication, and Fashion Business. Through these briefs, our students develop professional skills, engage in interdisciplinary collaboration, and gain real-world experience. They are challenged to think innovatively, respond creatively to real industry needs, and build connections that will shape their future careers.

Deputy Division Head, Senior Lecturer and Fashion X Co-ordinator Sarah Collins underscores Fashion X as “an exciting opportunity for our students at Manchester Fashion Institute to collaborate with their peers and partner organisations through a series of live projects. Working across programs, students are encouraged to think critically and creatively about the sustainable, ethical, and social challenges facing our present and future fashion industry, drawing on diverse specialisms to propose innovative systems, products, and methods that drive positive change. Alongside this, selected students will receive industry mentorship and opportunities to have their work platformed by partner organisations. ”

Live Briefs Overview

Our Fashion X Live Briefs provide a valuable platform for both our students and industry collaborators to connect, exchange ideas, and gain fresh perspectives on the pressing global challenges facing the fashion industry. This initiative allows our students to explore and develop innovative solutions that align with the latest industry trends, nurturing a deeper understanding of current market needs while encouraging creativity and collaboration. It’s an exceptional opportunity for students to engage with real-world issues and industry experts, gaining practical experience that will enhance their professional growth and readiness for the future

Fashion Design Live Brief with Africa Fashion Week London
In partnership with Africa Fashion Week London, this brief celebrates the rich heritage and innovation of African textiles and design. Students are tasked with exploring how traditional craftsmanship can be combined with contemporary fashion technologies. Selected participants will have the extraordinary opportunity to showcase their designs at Africa Fashion Week London in August 2025, gaining international exposure for their creative work.

Anna Marie Benedict, Press Director, and Samson Soboye, Stylist, Designer, and Educator, will collaborate with students on projects related to African fashion and cultural heritage.

Fashion Communication Live Brief with Condé Nast
With a focus on creating a unique new creative network for the ‘In the Bag’ campaign, in this brief students work on developing a compelling brand identity and producing engaging content that highlights sustainable fashion practices. This project challenges them to think critically about the role of communication in promoting ethical and forward-thinking solutions for the industry. 

Lead Dom Kelly, Group Creative Director, and Jasmine Day, Project Director at SocialChain and former Deputy Head of Production and Delivery at Condé Nast Britain, will offer insights and guidance on industry best practices and creative storytelling

Fashion Business Live Brief with Admiral
The Fashion Business Live Brief pushes students to explore innovative approaches to sustainability and ethics in the fashion industry. Collaborating with key industry partners, students develop strategies that address global challenges and prepare businesses for the future. The brief builds essential skills in trend forecasting, business strategy, and creative problem-solving. 

Admiral’s Sales and Marketing Manager will provide industry expertise and support to student projects focused on sportswear and activewear.

Masterclasses 

Students will also benefit from masterclasses led by industry experts and academics, including:

• Dr. Jo Jenkinson, Reader and Deputy Head at MFI
• Jalaj Hora, MFI Global Chair
• Dr. Morolake Dario, Lecturer at MFI
• Dr. Sharon Nunoo, Lecturer at MFI
• Kimberley Jenkins, Founder of The Fashion and Race Database
• Dr. Kat Theil, Senior Research Associate, Robotics Living Lab, Manchester Metropolitan University

These masterclasses will cover a range of topics, from the history of fashion and its impact on society to the latest innovations in sustainable and ethical design. 

Fashion X is a unique opportunity for students to develop their skills, gain valuable experience, and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable fashion industry. Through collaboration, mentorship, and industry exposure, students will be well-equipped to address the challenges of the future and shape the future of fashion.

Follow us on Instagram as we follow these exciting projects over the spring and summer terms.