Fashion – Enter Ltd Supports Technical Excellence in UDGN’s Cultural Threads Incubator

As part of the Unity in Design Global Network (UDGN)’s inaugural Cultural Threads incubator, Fashion-Enter Ltd’s Technical Development Director, Claire Solley, has played a pivotal role in supporting the next generation of minority fashion designers through two hands-on technical development sessions.

The Cultural Threads programme, founded by British Fashion Council member Tare Isaac, is a groundbreaking four-month initiative designed to nurture and elevate emerging minority designers by providing access to mentorship, industry connections, and professional development. The incubator culminated in a showcase at September’s London Fashion Week, where designers presented their refined collections to industry leaders, buyers, and media.

In her mentorship role, Fashion-Enter Ltd’s Claire Solley (pictured right) led two Product Development Touchpoint sessions alongside fellow mentors Joel (AFF) and Taya (Designer). Across these sessions, ten participating designers each received personalised, constructive feedback on their developing collections.

With a focus on construction, fit, and sewing methods, Claire’s technical insight helped designers translate their creative ideas into commercially viable garments. Drawing on her extensive ethical production experience at Fashion-Enter, Claire guided each designer through the practicalities of bringing their concepts to life.

Claire’s contribution was integral to ensuring designers not only explored their creative vision but also understood the craftsmanship and precision behind producing high-quality garments. Her mentorship helped bridge the gap between creativity and technical execution – a vital balance in today’s fashion landscape.

(Motunrayo collection development)

During the sessions, each designer presented their work-in-progress from sketches, fabric selections, or early samples – followed by a round of focused mentor feedback. Claire’s expertise provided clarity on pattern development, stitching techniques, and fit adjustments, helping participants refine their garments for production and presentation.

(Motunrayo photoshoot)

Her collaboration with Joel, who advised on craftsmanship and product development, and Taya, who brought a design and styling perspective, ensured that each designer benefited from a 360-degree critique covering everything from silhouette to finish.

Claire’s involvement aligns seamlessly with Fashion-Enter Ltd’s mission to champion skills development, ethical manufacturing, and inclusivity within the UK fashion industry. By participating in Cultural Threads, she helped UDGN further its mission to create an equitable platform for underrepresented creatives and build sustainable pathways for minority designers to thrive.

“The fashion industry thrives when creativity meets craftsmanship,” Claire noted. “It’s been inspiring to work with such passionate designers who are shaping the future of inclusive fashion through innovation and integrity.”

Founded in 2025 by designer Tare Isaac, Unity in Design Global Network (UDGN) aims to champion minority fashion designers by providing mentorship, industry access, and wellness support. Its debut incubator, Cultural Threads, represents a bold step toward equity and visibility in fashion empowering creatives to build lasting, sustainable careers.

To learn more, visit: www.unityindesignglobalnetwork.com

Catwalk images by Maja Smiejkowska, behind the scenes images courtesy of Tare Isaac