A STUDENT whose disability persuaded her to choose fashion over French has been rewarded for her life-changing decision.
Charlotte Elise Walters, who was born deaf in one ear, was hailed Graduate of the Year at the Cleveland College of Art & Design annual fashion show.
She was presented with the accolade by ex-CCAD student and now top vintage lingerie designer Michelle Taylor, who hosted the spectacular at Middlesbrough Town Hall.
“I couldn’t really do French because I was born deaf in one ear so opted for textiles,” recalled the 22-year-old, of Redmarshall, near Stockton.
“Studying at CCAD’s Hartlepool university campus has been an inspiration as you get really fantastic support from tutors and there is so much scope to be creative. The tutors push you to reach the very best of your ability.”
Charlotte Elise was surprised to win the top award because she had been so impressed with the design work of all her fellow students.
“My dream now is to develop my menswear label Point,” she said. “I love menswear as there is so much opportunity to develop the clothes with pockets and gadgets.
“My granddad used to have a clothing stall on Stockton market which my mum used to work on so it is great to be continuing a family tradition.”
Michelle told a packed audience that she had graduated from CCAD in 1993 and the college had set her up with all the confidence and skills she needed to succeed in a very competitive industry.
After working as a designer for M&S, Selfridges, Top Shop and Playboy she launched her own vintage luxury lingerie label Tallulah Love at an event in Paris in 2010.
“It is scary and tricky but there is money to be made and with the support of CCAD you feel the world is your oyster,” she said.
For the past four years she has continued working with CCAD and is helping to shape the new BA (Hons) Fashion programme making it even more tailored to the needs of the global fashion industry.
“There is a massive creative buzz in the North-East at the moment and compared to London we have something very special,” she said. “Up here we pull together to make the most of some very creative talent. It is our chance to shine.”
A richly diverse show premiered the designs of 30 degree students, the culmination of three years’ work.
Fashions ranged from children’s wear to menswear, stylish pregnancy clothing to office clothes which can be converted for partying, medieval wear for the 21st century to tribal designs.
For more information on opportunities at CCAD phone (01642) 288888 or log on to www.ccad.ac.uk.
