FASHION students from the Arts College in Bournemouth brought a touch of the seaside to London when they presented their collections at the Graduate fashion show.

Twelve students all hoped to win a prestigious award at the event on June 7 and had entries in categories including best accessories, best clothing collection and best portfolio.

Course leader for fashion studies at Bournemouth, Anne Chaisty, 54, said: “It is a tough industry that the students are entering into, this competition is a fantastic opportunity for them. Unfortunately not everyone can win, very often the students have to experience rejection before they can taste success”

Graduate Fashion Week was launched in 1991 and is a forum to showcase the best graduate talent, some 50 universities across 52 courses compete at Earls Court in London. Each University showcases their best student collections.

Over the years Graduate Fashion Week has launched the careers of brilliant British designers such as, Christopher Bailey, Stella McCartney and Julian MacDonald.

The 12 successful students were originally chosen after 52 students from the Arts College competed in a show held in the Pavilion in Bournemouth last month.

They were judged by three fashion experts, one of which was Sally Harnden, a menswear designer for Principles.

All of the students had the opportunity to showcase their portfolios at the event.

Every year the participating universities compete to produce an innovative stand to attract prospective employers. The local college decided on a seaside theme in keeping with their university’s location.

Student Katy Bray, 21 told the Echo: “A lot of work has been put in to the competition by the students, although its disappointing not to win its still an amazing experience and a good way to make further contacts within the industry.”