Olivia Watson, who studied BA (Hons) Fashion at Bradford College, has been selected as a finalist in a competition run by Singer in partnership with Barnardo’s. Her design, a jacket and reversible bucket hat created from donated bedding, showcases how everyday materials can be transformed into bold, contemporary fashion.
The piece was originally developed as part of her coursework, where students were challenged to create something new from something old. With sustainable design at the heart of the project, Olivia reimagined the donated materials into a distinctive piece.
“I submitted a jacket and a bucket hat using bedding that Barnardo’s had given me,” Olivia explained. “The goal was to create something new from something old, so I used that fabric to design something completely different.”
What began as a coursework project quickly grew into a national opportunity. While balancing coursework deadlines, Olivia decided to enter her existing design into the competition.
“I had already made the piece for my course, and I was in the middle of finishing my work,” she said. “I thought, I haven’t got time to make anything else, so I entered what I had.”
The competition, which promotes sustainable fashion and creative reuse, brings together emerging designers from across the UK. Importantly, the final is set to take place in July. It will give Olivia the opportunity to showcase her work on a national stage.
For Olivia, the achievement marks another important step in her journey through higher education at Bradford College. After previously studying Art and Design in Shipley, she took time out before returning to pursue a career in fashion.
“I always knew I wanted to move forward with fashion,” she said. “When I came to Bradford College, I used my previous competition work as part of my application. That really helped me take the next step.”
Drawing inspiration from the Bronte family and their literary legacy, Olivia has developed a fashion collection that blends historical influences with contemporary design. In addition, the project will be featured in an upcoming exhibition. This demonstrates her ability to transform research and storytelling into creative, wearable pieces.
“I’m really excited about it,” she said. “It’s not something I expected to be doing when I started my collection, but it’s great to know the work will be seen and appreciated.”
Experiences such as exhibiting her Bronte-inspired work and taking part in high-profile competitions are helping Olivia establish herself within the creative industries. In addition, each opportunity allows her to strengthen her portfolio. She can also gain valuable experience and share her work with a wider audience.
“It will make great content for my fashion profile as well,” she added. “Opportunities like this help you build your work and get it seen.”
Her work also reflects a wider shift within the fashion industry towards sustainability, where designers are rethinking materials and reducing waste. By transforming donated textiles into wearable designs, Olivia highlights how creative thinking can support more responsible approaches to fashion.
As she looks ahead to the competition, Olivia remains focused on continuing her development and making the most of every opportunity available to her.
Offering advice to others considering a future in art, design or fashion courses, she encourages aspiring creatives to be proactive.
“Don’t wait – just do it,” she said. “It doesn’t have to be perfect straight away. Just create, and you can improve it later.”
Olivia’s journey is a strong example of how studying at Bradford College can open doors, helping students turn ideas into real opportunities and preparing them for careers in the creative industries.
Start your journey today. Explore creative and fashion courses at Bradford College and take your first step towards a future in the creative industries.
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