Fashion learner, Sabine Bindere is now one step closer to her dream of being a top fashion designer after coming first in a competition at London Fashion Week.
19-year-old Sabine, who is studying for a BTEC in Fashion Design, created a dress that has helped her win first place in the prestigious 2011 FAD Junior Awards, part of the Fashion Futures 2 project – an initiative from the charity Fashion Awareness Direct (FAD).
Earlier in the year Sabine attended a number of workshops with around 100 other competing fashion learners. From the 100, Sabine and 25 other young aspiring designers from London and Manchester were handpicked to attend a special FAD summer school.
Of the Summer School Sabine said: “It was great fun and I learnt a lot but it was hard work.”
The 23 hopefuls made their designs during the summer school and showed them at Vauxhall Fashion Scout as part of London Fashion Week.
Talking about her design that helped clinch her first place Sabine said: “My dress is glamorous, sporty, very trendy and something like the popstar Rihanna would wear.”
To show designs at London Fashion Week in itself is a great opportunity and achievement, however Sabine has gone one step further when she was named as this year’s overall winner: “When they read out my name I couldn’t believe it. My legs we’re shaking and I couldn’t breathe.”
Sabine added: “I knew I had worked really hard but there was so much competition I really didn’t think I would win. As the runners up names were read I did think, well that’s that then and I was a little disappointed, but then they called my name as the overall winner and I was so shocked!”
“I am very proud of myself but all the others should be too as all of the designs were fantastic, everyone was a winner!” Sabine added.
Sabine’s proud Tutor Jo Price said: “When they read out Sabine’s name as the winner I screamed! It was fantastic and Sabine did so well because there was a lot of competition.
Jo added: “When I saw Sabine’s dress coming down the runway I thought it looked brilliant and very professional. I am very proud of her!”
As the winner, Sabine receives a two-week work experience placement with FAD supporter George at ASDA where she will be working with their top designers helping to design their range of clothing.
Sabine said: “I am really excited to start my placement and so happy that I won. I couldn’t have done it without the support of everyone at FAD, my Tutor Jo and my Mum.”
