LONDON (10th March 2011) -- American InterContinental University (AIU) London hosted its exclusive 'Sustain' Fashion Show on Thursday 10th March 2011 at the One Mayfair, North Audley Street, London, W1K 6ZA.

 

Based on the theme of Sustainability, all designs were created using recycled materials or re-using existing fabrics - with the designers as promoters of social change. The clothes were creative, contemporary, modern and inspirational, ensuring appealing designs to encourage a move toward sustainability.

 

The runway exhibited designs from second year to final year Fashion Design students. From menswear to womenswear, clothing ranged from the commercial, conceptual to the avant-garde.

 

Key industry figures, including those from the ethical and charity sectors, were able to go behind the scenes and view designs from the next generation of international fashion talent. The evening included a drinks reception on arrival, the Locomotives live band, the fashion show of exciting designs set to music plus live auctions of jewellery. The theme of Sustainability was apparent through-out the construct of the show, including the venue - a church that is being saved from disrepair by One Events.

 

A silent auction was also held showcasing jewellery produced by Nepalese children who have been rescued from trafficking by charity The Esther Benjamins Trust - including from Indian circuses where the children were forced to work as performers. The Esther Benjamins Trust offers the children the opportunity of a full education and a range of vocational training opportunities such as jewellery design.

 

Gill Stark, Dean of Fashion, AIU London said: "We are delighted to have presented the work of the Fashion Design students, who come to study from all over the world. As responsible designers, it is important for our students to think about how clothes are produced. Simple ways to reduce the environmental impact can be through recycling and re-using existing fabrics whilst still ensuring that designs are creative. We congratulate them on their achievement, and look forward to watching their careers unfold as they become the designers of the future."

 

Chris Kendrick, Head of Fundraising at The Esther Benjamins Trust said: "On behalf of everyone at The Esther Benjamins Trust, I'd like to express my gratitude to the students and staff at AIU London - we are privileged to have had their support since 2008 and it plays a significant role in raising awareness of our work in Nepal. In particular, we would like to thank AIU London for showcasing jewellery produced by child trafficking survivors we have rescued and trained in art skills."

 

AIU London is situated in the heart of the fashion industry and for 35 years has been preparing students to pursue careers in fashion design and fashion marketing.  The school's fashion department also teaches optional modules in Paris.  

 

AIU London fashion students have gone on to achievements such as winning Sky 1's Project Runway and successfully carving careers at Matthew Williamson London; Hugo Boss, Copenhagen and Ralph Lauren, New York.

 

For more information about AIU London or the event, please visit www.aiulondon.ac.uk

 

For more information about The Esther Benjamins Trust, please visit www.ebtrust.org.uk/