Cassandra Fryxell

The course

I chose Fashion Design & Technology because I wanted to pursue learning this specific set of skills; design, pattern making and garment construction. It was really important for me to get the most out of my education and learning because in the back of my mind I figured I would move back to the states and open up my own small business. After the first term, I learned much more than I could have expected and have continually been challenged to push the skills I’ve practiced creating designs and outfits which has been amazing.

My favourite thing about my course is that it is so practical. I’m so glad I don’t have to take any exams or have to study to be honest. Even though I have to be at university every day for long periods, at least I’m using my hands and practicing over and over my skills to be exceptional at what I do. I’ve also really enjoyed that the course lets you explore different ideas through fashion as a medium. I’ve always been interested in sustainability and minimalism and that’s always been a driving aesthetic in my designs. In my final year, for our first term, luckily enough the project was about sustainability. For the entire project we were given fabrics from high end brands and sourced trimmings through our resource centre so that we didn’t have to buy anything and use fabric and trimmings that weren’t needed by various fashion houses and past students who left behind supplies. This was a really great experience.

The Future

Manchester Fashion Institute is so heavily industry based, so not only have I learned the specific set of skills like design, pattern making and garment construction, I’ve learned things that are necessary to get into the industry and be able to work in it. For example, I have learnt how to make specification packs which are these really detailed informational packs of how one makes a garment. It has everything from how many pattern pieces are in one garment, to how much it takes to make the garments and how to even construct the garment. Manchester Fashion Institute have prepared me for my future so nicely that I’m confident enough to go to interviews in my field and be capable to work in the fashion industry.

Your Inspiration

My fellow classmates are the ones that really inspire me. We all come from different backgrounds and have different aesthetics with how we design and create garments that I really appreciate seeing their work come to life. And through the garments that are created, there are different point of views of different worldly topics that it’s so interesting to see their take on whatever their point of view is.

The City 

The reason I chose to study in the UK is quite simple, it was either move to a different state and open a small business or pursue higher education and learn more about fashion design and the industry. Plus, I’ve always been intrigued by British fashion and had to see it in person for myself!

I love the accessibility of Manchester and getting to the City Centre, or anywhere really. Manchester has a decent bus system, and everything is so centralised that you could easily walk to the place you need to get to. Plus, Manchester has the fast-paced city vibes, but you can easily get away from the city and take a break from it. It’s awesome.

I love exploring Manchester. Whether it be popping onto the tram to visit different sides of Manchester to walking a different route to City Centre, there’s always something new to find. One standout thing about Manchester is the history and that they’re able to modernise their city whilst maintaining it’s historical past. So while being awed by the history around the city and it’s contemporary buildings, you’ll also come across some decent coffee shops along the way.

My favourite place to go in Manchester is the Norther Quarter for sure. It’s where the alternative artists all are with indie coffee and bookshops. Graffiti art or painted murals every so often. Such a great place to get inspired by.

Advice for international students

Sort out the paperwork as soon as possible and be very organised with your application, that way, you don’t make the mistake of getting on the plane without having all your paperwork sorted, because that almost happened to me! And above all else, go for it! Manchester Fashion Institute is such a great place to study and is in such a cool city. Totally worth it.