Building A Community Network

15-09-2021
Newsletter 15th September 2021
FC Designer Workspace Welcomes Local Residents

Yesterday, 14th September, the Fashion-Enter team welcomed London borough of Islington residents to the recently opened FC Designer Workspace on Durham Road, London N7. Residents were invited to pop in between 10am – 2pm to find out about what the space can offer. It also provided the opportunity to:
• Pick up some free fabric
• ‘Have a go’ on the sewing machines
• Have a tour of the space
• Learn about free training and job opportunities
• Meet the team
Teresa Connolly, Outreach Support Practitioner at Bright Future said: “It was so lovely to meet you and to be shown around and informed of the fabulous work that will be carried out there. I can’t wait to share details with my colleagues and the families that we support in the area, it is such an exciting opportunity.”
The space is now open if you are based in Islington and would like to know more please contact: fcdesignerworkspace@fashion-enter.com
Official Launch This Friday 17th September

In line with the opening day of London Fashion Week the official launch for this innovative FC Designer Workspace will now take place on Friday 17th September. The evening event will include drinks, networking, words from Jules Pipe and Jeremy Corbyn, sewing demonstrations and tours of the space.
FC Designer Workspace, (Now Officially Open!) Studios 1 – 12, 9 Durham Road, London N7
fcdesignerworkspace@fashion-enter.com
In Collaboration…Designworks

As a social enterprise we understand that working collaboratively with others makes for a win win situation. Recently the design team at Designworks contacted us requesting the use of our Alvanon fit mannequins and facilities and of course we said yes. In return Designworks are generously providing a financial donation towards the Fashion Technology Academy.
Here Robin Crossley from Designworks explains about the company and working with us on their latest project.
“Designworks is an award-winning rapid design, development, and manufacturing business with over 30-years’ experience across a range of sectors. We love delivering innovative products, building meaningful brands, and bringing game-changing experiences to life.
“Our design team were recently introduced to FashionCapital by Alvanon UK. The introduction will benefit both parties and with support from the FashionCapital workspace shall allow our business to further improve our offerings for designing innovative medical wearable smart garments, which will have a positive impact on people’s lives.
“FashionCapital have a great ethos and core beliefs, Designworks are similarly likeminded and are always keen to upskill individuals from all walks of life, particularly those who aren’t in full time employment or at the start of their careers, we expect our financial contribution to help strengthen the workspace future offering.”
Tap here for further info on the Designwoks innovo Gen2 medical smart garment.
A Visit From Haringey’s Deputy Lieutenant

Peter Baker, the representative Deputy Lieutenant for the London borough of Haringey, came in to visit the Fashion-Enter team, Factory and Academy at the London HQ earlier this week.
He said: “It was a real pleasure and privilege to meet you and your team yesterday and see the wonderful and inspiring work you do. I was blown away with the passion you have for making an ethical difference in the fashion industry and in supporting the community.
“A big thank-you to Caroline for her time in showing me around your impressive operation and patience in answering my many questions. My very best wishes for a successful QAE application. My fingers are crossed for you but I hope that is not needed as believe you must be a very strong candidate!”
Staff News…

The Fashion-Enter team would like to say a big congratulations to Barbara Gardner, Stitcher at our Welsh Factory and her husband David Gardner. David was recently made a Knight of Grace by St John Ambulance Cymru for his 47-years of volunteering to help others. It’s the service’s highest honour which he received from the Duke of Gloucester in Saint John’s Church, London on the 8th September.
David said: “I feel very honoured and humbled. It is a big honour. A big thank-you to my wife and family for supporting me. You do give a lot but get a lot back for it but you obviously need the support of those behind you.”
Eddie, Commercial Manager at Fashion-Enter Wales added:“Barbara is quite rightly very proud of David’s award – you get out what you put in and David has certainly dedicated his life to ensure the safety of others.”
B of London Style of the Week

With a return to physical events at London Fashion Week we have picked out this statement hot pink, wrap dress that drapes in all the right places. Tap here to view this B of London design.
Masterclasses & Courses

On-going short courses in Stitching and Pattern Cutting available – to find out more visit our FCFTA website or contact education@fashion-enter.com
What Does It Take to Launch a Successful Fashion Business? (Online)
How to Produce a High Selling Product (Online)
Optitex 2D & 3D – 3 Day Course
How to Wholesale (Online)
Fabric Swatch of the Week

How about some 70’s chic with this vibrant viscose flower print fabric – ensure you stand out from the crowd! Available now at FCFabricStudio at £6- per meter.
Further Reading on FashionCapital

Is there a need for physical catwalk shows now virtual events have become more commonplace? We explore this topic in this article: ‘Has Virtual Pushed the Physical Catwalk Over the Edge’
And Finally…

Our popular FC Membership program is currently closed as we are at full capacity. The FC team are dedicated to the provision of this quality membership service and we therefore need to cap the number of annual members. If you would like to join the FC Membership service please contact: jenni@fashion-enter.com and get your name down on the waiting list for when new spaces become available in January 2022.
Until next time, have a great week!