GCSE and A level Textiles students from Haberdashers’ Monmouth School enjoyed an inspiring and immersive visit to Jimmy Choo Academy in Mayfair, London.

The students were able to go behind the scenes look at studying and working within the competitive fashion industry.

The visit held special significance for the school, as world- renowned designer Professor Jimmy Choo serves as Haberdashers’ Monmouth’s Patron of Fashion, Design and Textiles.

Students were able to enjoy an engaging introduction to the Academy’s values, creative ethos and industry- focused degree pathways before embarking on a guided tour of the Mayfair campus.

They met lecturers and spoke with undergraduates developing garments for their final collections, gaining an exciting insight into the creativity and technical skill required at degree level.

One of the day’s highlights was an energetic design challenge inspired by the theme Destruct and Construct. With just 30 minutes and half a metre of fabric, students collaborated to tear, plait, sculpt, and pin their materials into expressive dress concepts, later transforming these ideas into vibrant fashion illustrations.

The challenge provided a lively taste of the creativity and fast-paced problem-solving excepted in fashion design studios.

The visit concluded with a trip to Liberty London, giving students the chance to explore iconic fabrics and gather further creative inspiration.

Professor Jimmy Choo has joined students before in previous workshops were they were able to gain an insight into the fashion world, learning from the designer himself. Students were able to gain inspiration and practice their drawing and practical skills to take with them on their journey.

Overall, the experience proved eye- opening and energising, encouraging students to think boldly about future career pathways in fashion and textiles, and reinforcing the strong connection between Haberdashers’ Monmouth and the world of professional design through its patron, Professor Jimmy Choo.