My ambition is to realise a career as a designer in the fashion industry. Manchester can offer me the opportunities and learning environment to achieve this.
I appreciate the work ethic and dedication that the role requires and believe that I have the necessary determination and skills. My college course has helped me with time-management, researching and personal expression.
I look forward to continuing my development and knowledge at degree level.


I have always been interested in history, costume and drama and therefore decided to base my self-directed project on Marie Antoinette and the 18th century. This theme was inspired by Sofia Coppola's adaptation of the film, Marie Antoinette.


The final outcome of my project will consist of four outfits to be shown at the end of the year fashion show and a portfolio reflecting my final collection. I will produce my collection through flat pattern cutting and/or working on the stand, developing toiles and experimenting with trims, embroidery, corsetry and prints. I want to create a collection that is inspired by Marie Antoinette but has my own modern twist.


The portfolio I am submitting showcases my use of illustration, Photoshop, initial designs, product development and life drawing.


My illustration style has developed from life drawing skills and has been inspired by various design books and previous briefs. I am further enhancing these through Photoshop and experimenting with different mediums.


The initial designs have been finalised from one hundred produced throughout the brief. I have considered the garments through extensive research, sketches and shape development. Further images show experimentation for a four piece outfit that includes a jacket. This was worked up into a toile as you can see from the diary produced in my sketchbook.


Visit my blog acalamityjane.blogspot.com to see highlights of my inspirations, research and developing style.