Designers look to own labels

The South West Institute of Technology is breeding ambition, with two graduating students setting their sights on their own fashion labels.

Katie Fowler studied at the institute to extend her knowledge and gain industry experience, which has furthered the realisation of her dream.

‘‘I hope to be stocking soon,’’ she said.

Miss Fowler registered her business name, Darrel Franklin, in 2008. She has recently finished her first line and is now working towards showing her artistic flair during Fashion Week next year.

Her label is named after a friend who was teased about his name.

Miss Fowler said she now dreamed to make that name famous.

‘‘Just the freedom and creativity and being able to work for yourself is great,’’ Miss Fowler said.

Lecturer Sarah Ashburner said Katie had a natural ability and desire to succeed.

‘‘Katie comes in and in two hours cut, cut, cut, sew, sew, sew and the garment is done,’’ Mrs Ashburner said.

Chloe Morien likes to be an individual and will share that style in her future fashion label.

With plans to study fashion at university next year with six months in Paris, Miss Morien will not be short of inspirations.

The Applied Fashion and Design Technology course offers core components, sewing, pattern making, business, art and design which cover a broad range for students who want to pursue a career in the industry.

‘‘It is geared towards them establishing a small business,’’ Mrs Ashburner said.