Just days before lockdown in March and Year 7 student Catherine C was awarded the overall Key Stage 3 winner for her sustainable dress design in this year’s Fashion & Fairytale competition. Her prize was a state of the art sewing machine, sponsored by The Sewing Studio, together with a wonderful recreation of her design into an exhibition piece, which is now currently on display at the Assembly Rooms in Bath.
Catherine’s design had to show a link to nature and be made from sustainable fabric, using processes that were also earth-friendly. Her design was considered strong in sustainability, determination, imagination and craftsmanship, impressing judges and standing out amongst a highly credited field.
The competition was inspired by the award-winning dress designer Cindy Beadman, who supported the judging process and is also present at the exhibition herself along with many of her gorgeous gowns.
Katy Hancock, Marketing & PR Manager at Fashion and Fairytale congratulated Catherine adding, “We were stunned by the 300 designs we received from young people across Bath & North East Somerset and are delighted that our not-for-profit project has inspired students to put sustainability at the heart of their creativity; who knows with the passion demonstrated by B&NES students, perhaps one day fast fashion will be a thing of the past?!”
Head of Art, Mrs Bowden, praised Catherine on her wonderful win: “We are so proud of what Catherine has achieved, amid strong competition from many other impressive entries. Ms Beadman expressed admiration for Catherine’s design, as well as for other designs entered by Saint Gregory’s students, Amelie B, Charlotte T-W and Imogen E. It was a privilege to view Catherine’s design in such sumptuous surroundings and amongst so many beautifully crafted dresses.
More information on the competition and exhibition can be found at: https://www.fashionandfairytale.co.uk/
Pictured: Catherine with Cindy Beadman and her dress design. Also the original artist’s sketch design, submitted to judges.
