Jessica Leigh
Haughton

What made you choose to study at NTU?
“As soon as I arrived in Nottingham, I knew instantly it was where I wanted to go to university. I loved the city and all its character and charm. I had also heard really great things about the fashion design course and I felt very lucky gaining a place, as I had never studied fashion design before!”

What do you most enjoy about your course?
“Being able to bring beautiful designs and ideas to life.”

How did you find he course staff?
“My tutors who worked with me this year truly supported and encouraged me to push my concept forward. Sometimes feedback can be tough and a struggle to develop, but it’s so worth it when you begin to see your ideas come to life. The technical staff have also been so amazing this year, they are always there to help.”

Have you completed any work placements?
“I chose to take a year out to complete a year in industry. During this time, I secured an internship as a design assistant at John Lewis’ head offices in London. I worked with the lingerie and swimwear designer, this was when I realised that I wanted to create a lingerie collection in my final year. I learned so much on my placement; how the design processes work in industry, gained a bunch of technical skills, and spent the year discovering what kind of designer I wanted to be.”

Congratulations on coming third in the Oracle Fashion Technology Award! Can you tell us a little bit about your collection?
“Bare Baux Intimates is a conceptual lingerie collection that exercises the use of 3D printing technologies within design and construction. Using additive manufacturing, these personalised, data generated designs could revolutionise the way lingerie is made.

“Instead of being sewn, seams are bonded with silicone during the 3D printing process, pushing forward cleaner, seamless designs. Although exhibited in a conceptual way, it has incredible commercial potential within lingerie design.”

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned since being on your course?
“If you care enough about your practice, believe in your ideas and abilities and work hard, it will pay off in the end! There is nothing that beats that feeling.”