In front of crowd of fashionistas, industry peers, family and friends, Sarah Redman, from Wall Heath in the West Midlands, a second-year fashion design student at Nottingham Trent University was crowned winner of the David Nieper scholarship.
Surprised on the night with the David Nieper scholarship trophy, £1,000 in prize money and a placement at the British fashion house, Sarah’s stunning designs for stylish older women were celebrated as well as her interest and commitment to ethical and sustainable fashion.
Fellow student, Joanna Hyde also received a highly commended award and £250 in prize money presented by Christopher Nieper, Managing Director of David Nieper.
Over 100 students competed to win the prestigious David Nieper scholarship. During the week-long challenge, the students researched and designed collections for individual, stylish older women focusing on great fit and feel with the best of British, classic design.
As part of the scholarship challenge, Sarah and Joanna, along with eight other shortlisted finalists also spent a day at David Nieper in Alfreton, Derbyshire touring the design studios and meeting the Made in Britain fashion house’s 230 staff – gaining a rare and real-life insight into a company that designs and manufacturers all its clothing in the UK with each and every garment made handsigned by the person who made it.
Winner Sarah, said:
“”I am absolutely thrilled to receive this scholarship and have my work recognised by such an established and esteemed British brand as David Nieper! The competition has been really steep this year and there is so much talent amongst my friends and fellow students in NTU’s fashion and textile schools, so this means a lot. A massive thank-you to David Nieper.”
Christopher Nieper, Managing Director of David Nieper, said:
“Sarah’s imaginative response to the brief really stood out as well as the quality of her design ideas, depth of her research and technical expertise. Indeed, we were so impressed with her that we’ve also invited her to work with us over the summer so she can learn more about colour, fabric choice and silhouette, and how to design to fit and flatter.”
The David Nieper scholarship is just one of the initiatives David Nieper runs to encourage the growth of skills in the UK fashion and textiles industry. Employing 230 highly skilled people in Alfreton, Derbyshire, the company is passionately committed to UK manufacturing and up-skilling the next generation.
Julie Pinches, Associate Dean, the School of Art and Design, Nottingham Trent University concluded:
“All of our students have worked tremendously hard and displayed a wealth of talent and exceptional design skills. Congratulations to our winner and runners up! We would also to thank the team at David Nieper for their on-going support and encouragement to our students, the Made in Britain campaign will leave a lasting impression and give a boost to their future careers.”
