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6th February 2025
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Date 24th April 2026
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All information is accurate at the time of publication. Please check individual course pages for the most up-to-date information.
Are you considering studying Level 3 Fashion Design with us? We caught up with one of our current students, Jessica Lyne, to hear about her recent project - what she created, how she approached it, her advice for anyone thinking about the course and why she chose to study with us.
The brief for this project was to explore regeneration and sustainability within fashion by using upcycling as a design strategy. Students were asked to reimagine waste materials into valuable fashion outcomes, using one of the four elements as a starting point and develop this into a six-look collection.
Jessica’s Concept
When asked to share her concept, Jessica said:
My concept explored regeneration through protest focusing on themes of resistance, protection, and renewal. I initially started with the element of fire which represents anger and disruption.
This developed into research around protest movements and led me to the Hong Kong Umbrella Movement where umbrellas became symbols of protection and unity. I translated this into fashion by using deconstructed umbrellas as my main material and creating oversized layered silhouettes inspired by their structure. My approach combined sustainability with symbolism and used fashion to communicate social and political messages.
Best Bits
Jessica shared that her favourite part of the project was experimenting with construction and draping directly on the mannequin - especially working with unconventional materials like umbrellas.
I am most proud of how I developed a strong concept and carried it throughout my project from research to final outcome while creating a garment that is both visually impactful and meaningful.
Why She Joined Us at FRA
I chose to study at FRA because of its strong focus on industry and sustainability, as well as the opportunity to work on creative concept driven projects like this. I felt it would help me develop both my technical skills and my personal design identity and prepare me for a future in the fashion industry.
Jessica’s Advice
When asked to share her advice for those considering the course, Jessica said:
Stay open to experimentation and not be afraid to take risks with their ideas. It is also really important to take on board everything you are taught at the beginning as it builds the foundation for your work and helps you develop and elevate your ideas as the course progresses. Balancing both visual and written research is key to clearly communicating your concepts.
Feeling inspired? Find out more about our Level 3 Fashion Design Diploma and start your application today!
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