FashionCapital Newsletter

The Art of Being Nimble

The latest retail news certainly makes for some very uncomfortable reading; brands that supply to House of Fraser have been left counting the cost after the department store chain collapsed into administration. Laura Ashley saw annual profits drop as it continues to close stores in the UK, while Debenhams issued its third profit warning this year, blaming “increased competitor discounting and weakness in key markets.” It’s tough out there, clearly a new approach to needs to be implemented.

As the CEO of FashionCapital explains, “the key word today is ‘nimble’. By offering a design service, by being compliant and by being responsive to changing consumer demands manufacturers have a unique place in fashion today. We can be the very backbone for retailers providing newness in just 3-4 weeks for new styles and for repeats just two weeks. No excess stock, no mass discounting but a nimble and responsive relationship between manufacturer and retailer.”

Click here to find out more about our Factory in North London.

Are You Eligible for a Free Course Place?

Do you work part time? Earn less than £15,736.50 a year? Then you could be eligible for a free pattern cutting or stitching course at the FTA. Both pattern cutters and stitchers are in high demand within the industry and many go on to become trainee / junior pattern cutters and machine stitchers in design studios / manufacturing units, or set up their own fashion label or business. The next courses are due to commence Monday 3^rd September.

Please email: education@fashion-enter.com for further details.

New Vetigraph Course Dates

TR Pattern Cutting Taster Day

Taking place on Saturday 1^st of September we have the TR Pattern Cutting Taster Course. TR Pattern Cutting is a form of origami pattern cutting, which translates into immediate and intuitive 3D creations, in opposition to the more conventional way of drafting. Led by TR pattern super master Claudette Joseph, learners are introduced to this highly effective technique, suitable for beginners. This 3-hour class costs £65 to book click here.

Beginners Stitching 1 & 2 Day Options

For those wanting to learn how to use a sewing machine and begin to make their own garments then the next Absolute Beginners Stitching Course will take place on Saturday 1^st of September. Choose from a one-day £120 or two-days £199 of tuition from our highly experienced tutors. Both days include lunch and we can guarantee that you will know how to operate a sewing machine and make basic garments by the time you leave.

Masterclasses Coming Soon

River Island Attend First CPPD

Being a social enterprise that has a leading Fast Forward status means that we can show the future buyers of tomorrow exactly how to spot sharp practices and ensure ethical and transparent trading occurs for their designs and collections.

The group also learnt about what an open costing is, how to verify supplier costings, and what standard minutes are.

Feedback included:

‘It was extremely interesting and I have learnt a lot of valuable information regarding safety and how garments are made.  The training will help me to cost a garment going forward.’ Erica

‘Very informative and thorough. I now have a better knowledge of costings and ways to work efficiently. It was really helpful to experience, particularly if you haven’t been to a factory before.’ Helen

For more info on our CPPD’s click here

Summer Careers Skills Festival Hackney Next Thursday

Fashion Enter’s Ana will be offering advice on what we are all about at the Summer Careers Skills festival,organised by Hackney council next Thursday 30^th August. The event is targeted at young people who have just completed their GCSEs and unsure about their next move. The organisations attending will include colleges, apprenticeship providers, careers support and guidance. The event is free and takes place at Hackney Town Hall, 1 – 4pm.

Fashion Enter at Hidden River Festival

Taking place on Saturday 15th September the Hidden River Festival is an annual community focused event that brings together local organisations and the community. Along with live music, creative workshops and entertainment there will be food stalls and information booths, one of which will be occupied by Fashion Enter. Esme and the team will be on hand to advise on all the services and learning opportunities that Fashion Enter provides. The Hidden River Festival is a free event showcasing the extraordinary Woodberry Down community & surrounding areas of Hackney & Haringey against an urban wetland setting.

Fabric Studio September Sale

The next Sample & Fabric Sale is due to take place on Saturday 1^st September from 10am – 1pm at the Factory in North London. Come along and grab a bargain!