Task 1- Specialism Choice

Task 1: Specialism Choice.

My chosen specialism is Fashion Textiles. It is important for me to keep up with the newest trends to insure my work is current. However, it is also imperative to be able to research trends from other decades if the theme requires that. It is important to show that I can adapt my skills to fit the brief and work with versatility.

I have always dreamed of a career in Fashion because it is a strong passion and something I believe I am good at. I studied Textile technology at GCSE level and gained an ‘A’ grade. Since then I have decided I want to work in womens wear designing, pattern cutting and making and hope to continue studying at Brighton University. In ten years’ time I hope to have my own fashion label and be living in one of the fashion capitals preferably New York or London designing and creating my clothing. I would also love to eventually own my own fashion magazine, something as big as Elle or Vogue.

I would love to be as successful as Vivienne Westwood but I hope my career path is different to hers. Westwood did not go to University and actually started off as a primary school teacher. It wasn’t until the late 1970’s when Westwood met Malcom McLaren that she rose to fame when her designs helped shape the look of the punk rock movement. Westwood herself said ‘"I latched onto Malcolm as somebody who opened doors for me," Westwood said. "I mean, he seemed to know everything I needed at the time."’ McLaren opened a shop in London called ‘Let It Rock’ and later renamed in ‘Sex’ McLaren then started filling it with her designs. After her work with the Sex Pistols, Westwood went in a totally new direction with her collection of frilly shirts. Her styles have also included the mini-crini in the 1980s and the frayed tulle and tweed suit of the 1990s. She's even made a statement with her range of underwear. I can only hope to be as successful as Westwood but in the footsteps of other designers that went to University such as: Michelle Smith founder and designer of ‘Milly’ and Kaelen Haworth, designer for Kaelen and many other American and British designers.