Leicester College learner Joseph Gambrell is one of the 10 finalist competing for The Gavin Brown: Young Designer of the Year 2016 at The Clothes Show Creative Awards.

The brief was to be inspired by a Queen of any century and design a dress or a two piece for today’s modern woman and culture. Joseph chose Lady Jane Grey as his muse as he is from Leicester.

The winner will see their outfit modelled on The Clothes Show Style Studio Catwalk and featured in the Bright Young Things 2017 Campaign, as well as £1000 prize money for themselves and £500 donation to their College/University.

Joseph currently studying BTEC Level 3 Art and Design said:

“When entering the competition I really doubted myself and wasn’t sure if I would be any good.

“Making the garment has taught me new skills that I may not have explored otherwise. I am really nervous but extremely happy with the final piece.”

Amanda Cobden-Smith, Programme Lead BTEC Fashion said:

The Clothes Show’s creative design awards is a fantastic opportunity offered to all of our BTEC Fashion learners to allow them to demonstrate both their design skills and excellent garment making abilities. This year’s brief was ‘To be inspired by a queen of any century and design an outfit for today’s modern woman and culture.’

We are extremely proud of Joseph’s creation as his work is truly inspirational. He has been at Leicester College now for 4 years and is now in his final year of the Extended Diploma in Art & Design (Fashion & Clothing) and he has produced outstanding work across a number of disciplines in Art & Design. His thought processes are profound and his attention to detail exemplary.

The final creation focuses on Lady Jane Grey and includes local research which was initiated by a trip to the visitors centre at Bradgate Park. The garment constructed from a 1940’s parachute includes an oak leaf collar made from 42 individual pieces, buttons which Joseph sculptured himself out of olive wood, with the entire dress consisting of over 200 pieces. Other features such as a hand dyed lining, freehand embroidery and contrasting red zip fastening have help to give this concept a more modern twist. The ‘BRAV9’ embroidered logo across the back of the garment is to highlight the importance that she was not just the 9 day Queen as there was much more to this brave woman’s story.

We were thrilled to hear that Joseph had been selected as one of 10 finalists and wish him lots of luck!