Supporting Brands Since 2001
23-05-2025
Newsletter 26th March 2025
Expert Advice Via Zoom
Did you know FashionCapital is 24-years old? It truly is a veteran on the world wide web! What makes us different to the plethora of fashion websites out there is our working knowledge of getting a design off the page, into production and ultimately, worn by a happy customer. As part of Fashion-Enter Ltd with its factory, academies, workspace and shop, we understand the intricacies of working with a manufacturer and the many areas that entails.
With over 135 touch-points in garment development, understanding the journey from design to production is essential for any brand, startup or established. This morning, FashionCapital / FEL CEO Jenny Holloway discussed this very topic: From Design to Production – Getting It Right First Time, in our free, monthly masterclass series. She talked about how to avoid costly mistakes, reduce sampling time, and achieve high-quality results.This session was well-received with lots of interaction and questions from participants throughout.
Next…Talking Design, Drape, Patterns & Paris with Designer John Herrera
Next month we invite high fashion eveningwear and couture designer, as well as tutor at the FTA, John Herrera to discuss:
The evolvement of his label
The design process
His illustration, draping and pattern cutting skills
His love of teaching and sharing his expertise
Getting his work shown at prestigious Fashion Week events
And more…
John has just shown his eponymous label on the catwalk at Paris Fashion Week, so this will be the perfect masterclass for aspiring designers.
Masterclass with Designer John Herrera – Wednesday 24th April 10:00 AM – 11:00AM Online via Zoom
Tap here to register for your free place.
New 1-Day Workshops with John
As we are on the topic of John, we are excited to announce that alongside his pattern cutting tuition at the Academy he is also running four 1-day Saturday workshops on the following:
Bodice and Collar Pattern Cutting
Collar and Sleeve Pattern Cutting
These workshops provide a fantastic opportunity to gain insight from John’s high level of expertise. To find out more and book click on the links, all the workshops take place at the FC Designer Workspace on Durham Road, closest tube Finsbury Park, and are affordably priced.
FC CEO To Discuss Tech & Sustainability in Paris
FEL’s CEO, Jenny Holloway, will be discussing the topic of Technology and Sustainability in Fashion in the up and coming Unique Fashion Event, taking place in Paris on 24th & 25th May.
She will be joined by 30 designers, along with artists, buyers and IT companies to present a dynamic blend of innovation, technology, information and creativity.
To find out more about this global showcase tap here.
Learn How To Make Your Own Clothes This Spring
Are you interested in upcycling, repairing, or making your own garments from scratch? Whether you’re a complete beginner or have clothes making experience we offer a variety of courses to suit all levels.
Based at the fully equipped FC Designer Workspace located in Finsbury Park, our courses range from 1 to 4 days and we have a selection of dates to choose from.
Spring Courses from March – May include:
- Introduction to Industrial Sewing and Garment Making
- Intermediate Stitching Course: Mastering Garment Construction
- Beginners Pattern Cutting Course
- Upcycling Workshop
- Fashion Illustration for Beginners
- Skirt Adaption Pattern Cutting Workshop
- Bodice and Collar Pattern Cutting Workshop
- Collar and Sleeve Pattern Cutting Workshop
- Introduction to Draping
Our tutors are industry trained, friendly and supportive.
To find out more about each course including dates, prices and to book tap here.
What Our Learners Say…
Here’s a selection of feedback quotes from learners on last week’s 4-day stitching course:
“I learnt how to use a flatbed machine and an overlocker, how to cut and sew properly. The teachers were informative and provided insight on what skills / machines would best compliment my aspirations.”
“10 out of 10 – I will definitely be coming back.”
“A really great refresher as I haven’t completed a sewing task since 6th Form – 11 years ago. Such friendly tutors I felt I could have asked anything.”
“Fantastic course! Managed to accommodate people that were faster / more advanced. Very knowledgeable about different techniques. Louisa is very helpful and really friendly. By day 4, I felt part of the furniture. Will be back for more courses.”
“Both teachers were helpful and provided valuable insight and encouragement, alongside the best route and steps to take to complete my skillset.”
Leicester Made 2025
Leicester Made, 14th May, is gaining momentum bringing together outstanding suppliers and industry professionals. Last week we announced some of the speakers confirmed for our discussions, debates and roundtables. To find out more about the agenda and speakers so far tap here.
Capturing the event we have the very talented Felicity West, her film and photography expertise has taken her all over the world.
Felicity comments: “Creating a great, working partnership with our clients is extremely important to myself and my work. I feel very lucky and proud to have worked with so many amazing people and brands over the years. Whether it’s having complete creative freedom with a project, or working together in collaboration to bring a story to life, it’s all rewarding.”
To view her work tap here.
Leicester Made 14th May at Athena, Leicester, for exhibitor opportunities or general enquiries, contact beth@fashion-enter.com
Recycle and Repair With Us!
After a phenomenal Repair Week drop-in workshop we can see a real upsurge in repairs, recycling and upcycling. Our next Upcycling / Repair workshop will take place Friday 11th April at the FC Designer Workspace in Islington. For those that have been to our drop-in sessions at the FC Designer Collective shop this workshop takes it to the next level with full use of the equipped space and tutors to support.
This workshop costs £35 and is open to beginners. Perfect for creating your own unique spring / summer items!
Level 1 & 2 Stitching Commencing 7th April
We have availability on our Level 1 and 2 Stitching courses commencing Monday 7th April. These are accredited courses ranging from 5 – 10 weeks and are ideal for those wanting to gain industrial stitching experience to develop their skillset, set up their own business, or apply for an apprenticeship or job within the industry.
Masterclasses and Courses Coming Soon
Roll-on courses:
Available at all campuses Islington, Haringey and Leicester.
Diploma in Fashion Design and Business
Stitching:
31 March – 4-Day Introduction to Industrial Sewing and Garment Making – FC Designer Workspace – £110
7 April – 4-Day Intermediate Stitching Course – Mastering Garment Construction – FC Designer Workspace – £110
Pattern Cutting:
27 March – 2-Day Trouser Pattern Cutting Course – FC Designer Workspace – £70
31 March – 4-Day Beginners Pattern Cutting Course – FC Designer Workspace – £110
Upcycling:
11 April – 1-Day Beginners Upcycling Workshop – FC Designer Workspace – £35
Support and Advice:
24 April – Masterclass with Designer John Herrera – Via Zoom – Free
For more dates and courses tap here.
For all course enquiries contact: education@fashion-enter.com or call 0208 809 3311
This Week on FashionCapital…
New UKFT Report: Responsible UK Fashion and Textile Supply Chains
And Finally…
This Thursday 27th, Kirsty McGregor from Vogue Business will be visiting Leicester’s Fashion Hub. Kirsty will be talking to four suppliers on the topic of Leicester, Made in the UK, sustainability and circularity. Exciting! More on this soon.
Until next time, have a great week.
From the Team at FashionCapital
