Matthew
Lucas

What made you choose to study at NTU?
“I was first attracted to NTU because of the strong reputation it held. With students winning awards every year it really makes me realise I made the right choice.”

What have you enjoyed most about the course so far?
“I have enjoyed discovering my own personal design style and seeing how it has blossomed over the past three years. I have formed quite a relationship with pattern cutting, always overcoming the challenges fills me with a great sense of achievement.”

Has the course included any guest speakers?
“I will always remember Caitlin Price and Christopher Raeburn’s guest lectures in Years One and Two. They made a real impression and it was really inspiring to gain advice from designers that are so accomplished. It was great to hear how their journeys in fashion have differed so significantly.”

How do you find the course facilities?
“The fashion design facilities available at NTU are endless, I can practically make whatever I want. The Boningtons Art Shop is a very useful resource and has everything I need to help my creative processes.”

Congratulations on winning the Paul Smith Menswear project – can you tell us about this?
“The whole experience has really made me grow as a designer, as the brief allowed me to push my design skills. Working on an unfamiliar market, I enjoyed seeing through the research process to the end product.  My strengths in this project were bringing together sampling and developing a strong understanding for the market.

“I gained my inspiration from a visit to Chatsworth House over the summer. I grew fond of the ornate house which was surrounded by contemporary sculpture, and this created the grounds for my project.”

What are your plans after graduation?
“I’m really looking forward to my work placement at Paul Smith in July, and after that I would love the opportunity to work there permanently. I really admire Paul Smith’s brand aesthetic and design style.”