Harrogate students scoops fashion award

Samantha Henty, who achieved a First Class BA Hons in Applied Creative Design, beat students from colleges and universities across the country to triumph in her category.

She received her prize at a black-tie and champagne ceremony, held at Harrogate International Centre during the Harrogate Bridal Show.

For the competition, Samantha created a mood board and specification sheets, as well as the wedding dress itself – a cascading design in blue. The challenge set by the judging panel was to demonstrate a comprehension of the female form, and to suggest fabrics suitable for a royal bride.

Two further Harrogate College students also made it to the final of the awards – second year FdA Fashion Design and Production students Thekla Hall and Charlotte Roe. Students from the College have enjoyed success in previous years, making the finals in both 2013 and 2012.

Samantha said: “It was a very exciting evening and I’m delighted to have won. I’m now really excited about starting my career with Eternity Bride who sponsored the category and have offered me a job!”.

Samantha left a Maths Degree course at Warwick University to pursue her dream and study a Foundation Degree in Design and Products at Harrogate College, progressing from there to her Degree course.

Principal of Harrogate College, Debra Forsythe-Conroy, said: “We are incredibly proud of all three of our students who made the final and particularly of Samantha, for doing outstandingly well.

“At Harrogate College we place great importance on encouraging our students to showcase their work and to receive national recognition from industry professionals is simply wonderful. We are sure that Sam has an exceptional career ahead of her.

“It is also testament to her tutors’ hard work and commitment in helping her develop the skills and creative freedom which put her ahead of the other – very worthy – competitors”.