A fashion design student has landed a dream placement with fashion giant Topshop.

Jessica Herndlhofer, who is studying at the University of Huddersfield, won a one-year placement with the fashion retailer as part of a national British Fashion Council Topshop competition.

The 22-year-old will work as a Design Assistant in Topshop’s London headquarters having beat off competition from students throughout the UK.

Jessica said: “I am really excited about working for Topshop and it’s a great opportunity.

“I will be working across three different design teams which could include casual wear, embroidery or print.

“This is the ideal placement for me as Topshop has always been one of my favourite stores and makes up most of my wardrobe.”

Jessica will be based at the Arcadia Group headquarters in London, who own Topshop and Topman along with other well-known high street brands including Burton, BHS, Dorothy Perkins and Wallis.

To land the placement Jessica was invited to an interview with a panel which included the head designer at Topshop and a representative from the British Fashion Council.

Jessica Herndlhofer, University of Huddersfield fashion design student

She added: “I was asked to bring along some samples of my designs and decided to show the panel three designs from my final-year collection.

“I included one of my favourite pieces, a leather jacket with a laser cut motif on the back, which is heavily beaded and embellished and the panel really liked it.”

Jessica’s entry was supported by her previous experience gained during her university placements, including six months at Erdem in London and three months with Matthew Williamson.

Jessica graduates this summer and is currently working towards her final-year collection before re-locating to London.

The British Fashion Council (BFC) works with its member colleges, which include the University of Huddersfield, to provide opportunities such as placements for students seeking a career in the fashion industry.