University of Central Lancashire Graduate Fashion Show

The Fashion show of the University of Central Lancashire had quite a few nominations for the Gala Show and if I'm remember correctly a winner for the Textile Award. I've noticed that no menswear collection has been on the catwalk for this University, men are still a bit neglected when fashion is involved, only this month for first time Men Collection had three days of cartwalks and presentations instead of being on the last day of London Fashion Week. Things are starting to look up at this side of the market where even creating a man's collection doesn't mean to be stuck with classic lines and strict tailoring. Creativity is starting to crop up on menswear as well.

Claire Acton opened the show with her playful collection of minidresses and oversized shirts where maxi faces were peeping under fringes sewn on the fabric. Colourful hairclips made a skirt or a shirt or just  kept hold of strands of "hair". I must admit, I've found the skirt very pretty.The judges thought the same when they shortlisted Claire for the Gold Award, unfortunately the prize went to another University.

Xiaoping Huang is the winner of the Textile Award, her collection, colourful, bold and very architectural won over the judges who awarded the student with the prize presented by Daisy Lowe and Mary Katrantzou. We are going to hear more from this tiny girl.

Emma Guilfoyle has created a very ladylike collection with separates and dresses reminding me of the 1960s, yet there is a modern twist with huge prints and the use of patchwork in some of the outfits where different patches of tweed are mixed together with bright prints.A tailleur with a small cape to match is just adorable.

Talia Golchin collection is very colourful and as soon as I've seen it on the catwalk the images of Spanish artist Joan Miro sprang up on my mind with the bright background and drawings.Electric blue, orange, yellow, black and white are the main colours on Talia's palette.