Stoke Damerel Community College

A group of students got a closer look at the world of fashion at the Clothes Show Live event in Birmingham.

The group of 28 Year 8, 9 and 10 students enjoyed a day of inspiration at the annual event which showcases the latest trends in fashion and is billed as the nation's biggest catwalk show.

The group left at 7am to make the four-hour journey to the NEC accompanied by Miss Rollason, Mrs Barrett, Miss Torr and Miss Mouland.

"There was lots to do so we let the girls explore - there were mini catwalks with retail shops showcasing new collections as well as bands playing including X Factor contestants," said textiles teacher Miss Rollason, who led the trip on 10 December 2012.

"The girls were given a small work booklet to complete, looking at what was on show, designers they admired and were inspired by, drawing designs they liked, how they might adapt and remodel pieces of clothing, looking at accessories and writing a review of their favourite parts of the day.

"The show was packed with clothing stands to explore fashion and get some bargains. There were lots of cosmetics with free make overs, teeth whitening demonstrations, massages and lots more.

A range of designers showcased their work

"The main fashion show was amazing," said Ms Rollason. "To get the crowd going JLS did a DJ set, dancing and doing somersaults and singing and I think all the crowd were on their feet dancing, although I think the teachers were doing most of the dancing!"

"The show was much more than models strutting down the catwalk - a range of designers were showcasing their work including Ashley Isham, Louis Heal and Bora Aksu just to name a few. There were also high street shops supporting the show including Top Shop, New Look and Primark. It was one of the best catwalk shows I've ever seen.

"There were also many further education representatives there with their own stands and their students showing their work and what they do, we encouraged all students to go and look around to give them an idea of where their futures may lead and help inspire them.

A return trip is planned

"On our way back to the coach the girls expressed how much fun they had had and were buzzing about the show - they want to go again next year."

'Wealth of information'

Miss Rollason said the girls "did us proud, they behaved well and it was a pleasure to take them".

One student said: "There was a fantastic range of designers to gather inspiration from."

"I had a fantastic day out, it was amazing," said another.

Miss Rollason added: "I think the students gained a wealth of information about the fashion industry being more than just clothes and saw how it's all tied in with other industries such as cosmetics, media and music.

"They were able to see directly through the fashion show how the designers' work came from influences around the world."