Emerging designer to see collection on catwalk

As a winner, Ivo’s collection will be manufactured by MAXXAM and worn on the catwalk during Graduate Fashion Week 2025, taking place at the iconic Truman Brewery in London Friday 13 to Monday 16 June.

The competition invited students from member universities across the globe to design a spring/summer womenswear capsule collection, utilising MAXXAM Textiles – a multipurpose fabric pioneered by Rosemary Moore in 1983 – while weaving in sustainable practices. On his approach, Ivo says:

“For this collection, I took inspiration from the sand and its composition. Broken seashells and corals, once whole and beautiful on their own, go through several transformations to make up the scenic landscape of beaches we seek when going on vacation.

“Being selected as a winner still feels unreal to me, it was an honour already to be shortlisted, so when I found out I won I actually didn't believe it at first!”

Ivo’s designs will now be brought to life through a collaboration with Rosemary Moore and professional manufacturers in the industry, turning his winning designs into catwalk-worthy garments. Ivo credits Solent for guiding him towards this success, saying:

“Studying at Solent has helped me develop as a designer not only because of the facilities I've had access to, but more importantly because of the great guidance from my lecturers. The creative freedom I've been given has helped me develop an artistic identity of my own alongside the technical abilities I have been taught by my lecturers. I’ve learned to express myself better and take even the simplest, most mundane thing and turn it into a full concept.”

The competition, which is aimed at second and final year university students, gives up-and-coming designers the covetable opportunity to showcase their designs to industry during Graduate Fashion Week. Emma Calder, Solent’s Course Leader Fashion Design, Fashion Photography and Fashion Styling and Creative Direction, says:

“We are so proud of Ivo! Being chosen as one of the three shortlisted winners is such a fantastic experience, as his athleisure capsule collection will be professionally manufactured by the MAXXAM team and shown on the catwalk at Graduate Fashion Week in London this June.

“Ivo has already had the opportunity to meet Rosemary Moore, the founder and creator of this innovative and iconic fabric brand, gaining invaluable industry insight, and we can't wait to see his designs come to life and have their debut on an international stage.”

Graduate Fashion Foundation champions the next generation of talent, providing opportunities for students and graduates to connect with industry. Every year, during Graduate Fashion Week, students from Solent’s Department of Art and Music take part in the event, showcasing their skills and innovative approach to a wide range of areas within the world of fashion and beauty.

A final winner will be announced at the Graduate Fashion Foundation Gala Show on Monday 16 June. Find out more about fashion and beauty degrees at Solent here.