A FASHION guru received an honour from the University of Huddersfield and then opened a section of its most eye-catching building.
Colin McDowell, MBE, was joined by Christopher Bailey, head of design at Burberry, at the university yesterday.
Colin received an Honorary Doctorate from the university and Christopher – who received an honorary doctorate last year – hosted a question and answer session for students.
The two designers then opened the fashion floor in the University’s new Creative Arts Building and viewed coursework – including stunning ball gowns – designed by costume students and outfits from TV programme Fashion Idol winner Ryan Heard’s graduate collection.
Colin McDowell is the founder and creator of Fashion Fringe and senior writer for the Sunday Times Style Magazine.
Created in 2004 by IMG global sports, entertainment and media company under Colin’s creative direction, Fashion Fringe is a competition to find new fashion talent and re-invigorate the fashion industry in this country.
It looks for cutting edge talent in design and creativity.
Christopher is one of the leading fashion designers and has worked for the top fashion houses such as Donna Karan and Gucci, before taking over as the Creative Director for Burberry.
Emma Hunt, Dean of the School of Art, Design and Architecture at the university, said: “The award ceremony offers staff and students the opportunity to celebrate Colin McDowell’s outstanding contribution to British fashion.”
