Date: 04 March 2025
London Metropolitan University students are gaining hands-on experience in the fashion industry, from working behind the scenes at London Fashion Week to engaging with top professionals. These opportunities connect academic learning with real-world application, giving students a clearer sense of industry expectations and the skills required to succeed.
Behind the Scenes at London Fashion Week
During London Fashion Week, students interned with prestigious fashion houses, taking on critical roles in styling models, managing VIP services, and setting up event spaces. They also worked closely with media teams, ensuring smooth interview processes and managing press coverage to maximize event exposure.
The fast-paced environment pushed students to think on their feet, handling tight deadlines, last-minute design alterations, and the coordination of multiple moving parts. "Helping to bring designers' creative visions to life was an exhilarating experience. It reinforced my passion for the fashion industry," said Mae Ashwell, a third-year Fashion Marketing and Business Management BA student.
Beyond event logistics, students had opportunities to engage with designers, models, and industry professionals. "Interning at London Fashion Week not only enhanced my practical skills but also boosted my confidence in pursuing a future in fashion," said Sydney Tatam, one of Mae’s coursemates. The experience reinforced the importance of blending academic knowledge with practical industry exposure, ensuring students graduate with not only theoretical expertise but also hands-on experience that sets them apart.
Insights from Luxury Fashion Expert Marshall Mayers
On February 8, London Met welcomed Marshall Mayers, VIP Clientele Manager for the UK and Northern Europe for luxury Italian brand Zegna, for an exclusive session with over 50 MA and BA students. The event, led by MA Marketing Course Leader Giovanni Bordone, offered a deep dive into luxury fashion, covering consumer psychology, market trends, and the realities of working with high-end clients.
The session was highly interactive, with students eager to ask questions and gain insights from Mayers' extensive experience. Discussions touched on the challenges of brand positioning, the evolution of luxury fashion, and the importance of relationship management in a highly competitive industry.
"At London Met, we design our courses to ensure students gain real industry experience alongside their studies," said Giovanni, himself a former Zegna employee. "Opportunities like this give our students the practical skills, confidence, and networks they need to thrive in the fashion world. It's not just about learning theory; it's about applying it in real-life situations where they can see the impact firsthand."
The session was also a reunion for Bordone and Mayers, who had worked together years ago. Their continued professional connection highlighted how networking and maintaining industry relationships can be instrumental in long-term career success.
The Future of Fashion Education at London Met
These experiences showcase London Met’s commitment to bridging education with industry exposure. By providing students with both practical training and expert insights, the university ensures that graduates are well-equipped to enter the competitive fashion industry with confidence.
