Gavin Douglas
Description
Gavin Douglas is a dynamic, young fashion designer, whose collections are aimed at those who wish to express their individuality through clothing. His fashionable label, Gavin Douglas, is inspired by music and cultural diversity.
Why we funded
Gavin meticulously researches, designs and crafts each garment, ensuring its uniqueness and quality. His cutting techniques combined with his creative use of fabrics, including feathers and salmon skins, fill a niche in the urban fashion scene.
Gavin demonstrated his talent and ambition long before applying to NESTA's Insight Out programme. In 2002, he enrolled in a Prince's Trust business start-up course, which enabled him to launch his label and buy some of the equipment needed to run his business.
From there, he went on to showcase collections at Caribbean Fashion Week in 2005 and Barbados Fashion Week in 2006.
Impact
Gavin's hard work recently paid off when he won the prestigious Fashion Fringe Competition, run as part of London Fashion Week 2006. His collection was judged by an international panel of designers, buyers and media, including Tom Ford.
As part of the prize package, Gavin received business support, development grants from the Centre for Fashion Enterprise to help him build his business, and the chance to showcase a full collection at London Fashion Week in March 2007.
His collection will also be sold at international fashion retailer, Yoox.com, enabling him access to a global marketplace.
Written: December 2006
Individual:
Gavin Douglas
Programme:
Insight Out
Discipline:
Fashion design
Location:
Birmingham
Funding:
£4,000
Year funded:
2005
Website:
www.gavindouglasfashion.com