Birmingham City University’s Open Air Fashion Event – 1000 Threads Returns

Birmingham City University‘s acclaimed outdoor fashion event, 1000 Threads, returns on Thursday 18th June, transforming Central Square at Brindleyplace into a vibrant showcase of emerging fashion and creative talent.

Free to attend and open to everyone, 1000 Threads continues to break down barriers between education, industry and the public by providing an accessible platform for the next generation of designers and makers. Hosted by Strictly Come Dancing star Lauren Oakley, the open-air catwalk will feature 11 industry-selected collections from graduates within BCU’s School of Arts.

Unlike many traditional fashion events, 1000 Threads welcomes the wider community, creating opportunities for students, families, businesses, aspiring creatives and fashion enthusiasts to experience graduate talent firsthand in the heart of Birmingham.

(This image and top image from 1000 Threads catwalk show 2025 courtesy of BCU)

This year’s collections explore themes of heritage, identity, craftsmanship and innovation, drawing inspiration from diverse influences including Jamaican and Bangladeshi culture, English textiles and the work of artist Grayson Perry. The catwalk also highlights contemporary issues, with MA Fashion and Textiles graduates presenting work that responds to an increasingly digital and AI-driven world while championing craftsmanship and sustainable design practices.

Lee Lapthorne, Associate Professor, Director of Creative Partnerships at BCU and Founder & Director of 1000 Threads, said:

“Our graduates are tastemakers, craftspeople, innovators, entrepreneurs, and disruptors.

They are not waiting to be discovered. They are here, in our city ambitious, skilled, and ready to shape what Birmingham’s creative culture becomes next.”

Following the catwalk, visitors can explore the School of Arts graduate exhibition at X10, showcasing work across fashion, textiles, jewellery, media, art and design. The exhibition remains open to the public until 1st July 2026 and highlights both graduate achievements and industry collaborations.

Delivered in partnership with Brindleyplace and supported by sponsors including Bank Restaurant and Ikon Gallery, 1000 Threads continues to celebrate Birmingham’s rich creative heritage while providing an inclusive platform for emerging talent to connect with industry and the wider public.

1000 Threads takes place on Thursday 18th June at 6.30pm in Central Square, Brindleyplace, Birmingham. Admission is free and open to all.

To find out more visit:

https://www.bcu.ac.uk/business/business-events/1000-threads-fashion-show