Gabi takes fashion to the streets for this year’s Graduate Fashion Week

A striking image portraying glamour against homelessness was the inspiration behind 20-year-old Gabi Taylor’s collection which will be shown on the University of Northampton’s catwalk at this year’s Graduate Fashion Week.

Gabi, who is originally from Redbourn in Hertfordshire, came across a photo which was taken during New York Fashion Week which shows three fashionistas posing beside a man sleeping on the streets and was inspired by the clash of the two very different lifestyles.

She said: “After seeing this photo, it piqued my interest and I started to research photographers who are linked with homeless charities. One particular photographer, Andres Serrano, goes around New York and pays homeless people for their signs asking for money to use in his art so I used this theme as inspiration when designing my final collection.

“I am studying on the BA (Hons) Textiles for Fashion programme so my collection is mostly print. I am interested in weaving and have made a lot of handcrafted pieces that can be woven into my collection. I have enjoyed working with both silk and wool as they are easy to print on and I have definitely discovered a love for shiny materials.

“I have loved studying at the University of Northampton and I have found it to be a lot more intimate than some of the bigger universities. One thing I will take away from my time here is to not be afraid to ask for something; whether its work experience, how to do something or time with your tutors.”

Graduate Fashion Week takes place from Sunday 5 to Wednesday 8 June at the Truman Brewery in Shoreditch and has been firmly established as the world’s leading event for fashion graduates. The University of Northampton’s catwalk show takes place on Monday 6 June and is in partnership with holistic cosmetic company, Weleda.