One of the world’s finest lingerie brands has offered two Contour Fashion students the chance to work with them in Paris.
Ellie Balwako and Hannah Jones will spend the summer with Aubade after impressing judges with their designs in a competition for students at De Montfort University Leicester (DMU).
The contest was run by Lectra, a world-leading technology company which supports the fashion industry, and luxury lingerie company Aubade, renowned for its use of high-end fabrics and innovative design.
It was the first time the contest had been run. Final-year DMU students were asked to develop a six-piece collection on the theme of English handwriting, using Lectra’s Modaris pattern making technology.
The prize was originally for just one student to have an internship but judges were so impressed they offered both girls a six-month role.
Gillian Proctor, principal lecturer and programme leader in Contour Fashion, said: “This contest was a true opportunity for our final-year students who were really motivated. They’ve demonstrated great creativity, drawing from Aubade’s brand spirit and concentrating on technical aspects to obtain a perfect fit. They used Lectra solutions, which are at the core of our program and which are an undeniable advantage when looking for a job.”
Ellie’s internship will focus on product development and Hannah’s on design.
Claire Masson, global brand Director at Aubade, said it was a “wonderful project”. She added: “It is a true exchange between professionals and students. We are very pleased to welcome and to work with young talent who bring a fresh eye and their unique personalities to the Aubade team.”
Anastasia Charbin, Fashion and Apparel Marketing Director at Lectra, said: “The competition is a reflection of Lectra’s commitment to education, Aubade’s involvement in transmitting the brand’s DNA and DMU’s efforts to favour their students’ employability.”
Founded in 1947, DMU’s Contour Fashion is the oldest lingerie degree in the world.
Posted on Monday 9 February 2015