University News Last updated 19 June
Hundreds gathered at Brindleyplace on Thursday evening as Birmingham City University's acclaimed 1000 Threads fashion show returned to the heart of the city, showcasing the creativity and ambition of its student fashion designers.
Hosted by Strictly Come Dancing star Lauren Oakley, the outdoor event featured 11 eclectic collections spanning menswear and womenswear, with students exploring themes of international connectivity, heritage and archiving.
Set in Central Square, emerging designers presented their work to industry leaders, influencers and members of the public in one of the highlights of the city's creative calendar.
“The backdrop of Birmingham is important,” said Mavernie Cunningham, Dean of the School of Arts at BCU. “As a city renowned for its heritage of making, craftsmanship and sheer brilliance for innovation, this annual event feels especially significant.”
Birmingham-born Lauren was delighted to be involved.
“It was fabulous to be back in Brum with lots of fellow Brummies buzzing about the level of talent there is in our city,” she said. “The crowd was amazing. The catwalk show is iconic, a regular in the city’s calendar. What an honour to be part of it.”
To close the show, three students received awards from industry experts.
Imarnie Bennett, a BA (Hons) Fashion Design graduate, received the Menswear award for her collection, Reject The Standard, which encourages wearers to embrace their authentic selves and reject conventional standards.
She was presented with her accolade by fashion journalist Andrew Davis, who has styled the likes of Tom Cruise, Keanu Reeves, Daniel Craig, Uma Thurman and Gwyneth Paltrow as well as writing for The Face, Wonderland and GQ.
“This award feels like such an amazing achievement,” said Imarnie. “I feel like I have really found my niche with menswear ,so it’s wonderful to be recognised for my collection and to see my garments in the show.”
The Womenswear award went to Frankie Ward, BA (Hons) Fashion Design, whose collection, Inherited Ground, draws on personal memories and family heirlooms to reinterpret equestrianism through a contemporary lens.
The award was presented by London-based fashion designer Corrie Nielsen, who started her career with Vivienne Westwood. Neilsen’s own collections have received widespread critical acclaim and established her reputation for innovative craftmanship.
“It feels like the whole three years studying with BCU has led to this,” said Frankie. “The catwalk show is a moment to celebrate all of our work - which has been possible with the amazing support of all the staff and technicians at the School of Arts.”
Graduating BA (Hons) Fashion Design student Zoe Bennett received this year’s Gold Award for her menswear collection, Between Stations, which isinfluenced by the work of Grayson Perry.
With each garment panel hand screen-printed, Zoe’s work explores the intersection of tailoring, sportswear, and contemporary art.
Zoe received her award from Jack Irving, who is known for his futuristic and avant-garde creations. He has collaborated with and dressed Katy Perry, The Spice Girls, Paloma Faith, Paris Hilton, Cheryl and Lady Gaga.
“This award is incredible,” said Zoe. “My whole experience in Birmingham and at BCU has been brilliant. We’ve had so many opportunities to work on live projects and make industry connections.”
She added: “To be recognised and receive this award from Jack Irving is amazing. I will take all the experience and knowledge I’ve gained in Birmingham forward with me as I look to make my mark with a career in fashion design.”
1000 Threads was delivered in partnership with Brindleyplace, with sponsorship from Bank restaurant and Ikon Gallery.
The catwalk featured models from more than 10 leading London agencies, with hair styling by L'Oréal Professionnel and makeup by The Central School of Makeup.
Following the show, guests attended the official after-party at Ikon Gallery, where the School of Arts takeover featured live student performances, sets from DJs at Selectahood, performances by drag artists, and appearances from acclaimed musicians Babz on Crack and Anat Ben-David.
The X10 exhibition, featuring the work from graduating students of Art, Fashion, Jewellery, Media, Design and Textiles, remains open daily to the public until 1 July 2026.
This exhibition highlights live industry and community-based collaborations alongside the achievements and accolades of BCU’s 2026 graduates and alumni. The exhibition offers visitors a unique insight into the processes, ideas, and innovations of a new generation of creatives.
Find out more about the courses on offer at Birmingham City University’s School of Arts by visiting https://www.bcu.ac.uk/arts
Pictured: Frankie Ward (centre, red top) receives her award from Corrie Nielsen.