Fashion Glitter: University of Ulster Graduate Fashion Show 2014

The University of Ulster launched an impressive line-up for the 2014 Ulster Festival of Art & Design, which includes some of the most creative and inspiring minds from the film, fashion, music and business worlds.

Running from 10-14 March, the festival showcased nearly forty separate events that brought the very best of international creativity and innovation to local audiences.

David Bowie’s album designer, Johnathan Barnbrook; Jane McCann, technical designer for Nike; Sandra Scott, Harry Potter’s special effects producer; Chanel’s fashion forecaster, Beryl Gibson; Paul Smith’s shop designers, 6a, and acclaimed photographer Martin Parr, are among the line-up that have showcased the impact of art and design with the university.

The University of Ulster’s very own Professor Greg Maguire who worked on Oscar winning films, Avatar and Harry Potter also hosted an animation workshop for young people. Kano, the DIY computer kit company, demonstrated how design turned their concept into an international business success.

Launching the programme, festival Director Tim Kerr said: “Art and design played a much bigger part in our daily lives than we actually realise. From the films we watched and the buildings we worked in, to the very clothes we wear, art, design and creativity enhance our surroundings each and every day.

“Ulster’s 2014 festival line up provided the public, and the students, with access to some of the most influential and creative minds in the world. Surely that the diverse range of events offered showcased the creative flair that enriches the lives and inspired future generations.”

The festival has a packed schedule of activities including the Belfast International Festival of Performance Art as well as a landmark exhibition of work by University of Ulster and Yale University photography graduates and the most anticipated event – where student designers have had the opportunity to showcase their final collection during the Graduate Fashion Show held and produced by the University each year.

The event took place in Belfast. It was as always jam-packed with professionals and fashionistas from different parts of the worlds for the reason that they always come up with such a fun-tastic show.

Each year, Ulster never fails to impress the right people in the industry, producing promising up and coming talents who caters something fresh and unique. This year has a line-up of impressive and immensely creative designers showcasing designs that were current but very unique, collection with interesting features, cuts and layers and amazing combination of colors and choices of textiles and just leaving in awe of the fantastic pieces that walked on the ramp.

Although the designs were different, edgy in some but they were not overly designed and are totally wearable. Often we see designs that are fully layered and looked really chic and glam, but it does not fit the ordinary taste, it does not comfortable and in the sense is not wearable especially to the masses.

This is where Ulster designers excel, they meet the fashion taste of the majority. They make fantastic and fashionable designs that are not just appealing but absolutely comfortable to wear.

Check out some of the fantastic designs and highlights from the show;