Burgess Hill Girls Win Prizes in Craftsman Competition

Posted: 15th June 2017

Allegra C the name to look out for in future fashion world!

Congratulations to Lower Sixth student, Allegra C, who was very excited to be awarded prizes in the highly prestigious Young Craftsman of the Year Competition held at the South of England Show in Ardingly at the start of June 2017.  She won the Textiles section and her high quality versatile and adaptable African inspired garment was also awarded the Silver prize when judged against all the other section winners.  Allegra created a two piece outfit with a detachable and reversible hood. The hood could be worn over the head or by opening up the zipper could be worn at the front as a scarf; it is also possible to wear it underneath the arms to create a different back view. The tightly fitted wrap over bodice was inspired by the way African woman often carry their babies. In contrast to the structured bodice, the skirt was much softer and features a central gathered seam.

The judges were truly impressed and their comments included; “an imaginative design with an excellent variety of materials and techniques. Work shows skill in use of machine and finish is excellent.”

Allegra also was delighted to be awarded Third prize for another of her outfits which was inspired by Elizabeth I. This stunning outfit featured an impressive ruff and lace collar. Once again the judges were duly impressed by the imaginative design idea and choice of appropriate fabrics and embellishments.

Mrs Bradley, Head of Technology, said “Allegra has shown that she is an exceptionally talented student in the fashion world, and it is wonderful that her efforts have been recognised. Each of the garments that she has created is very complex and has taken hours of work to achieve the desired effect but Allegra is so dedicated she thoroughly deserves to win. Every year I am amazed by the achievements of the girls, and this does help to make all the hours of hard work and creativity worthwhile. Allegra will be starting to create her next A level outfit shortly so I am becoming excited to see what she is going to design next”.

Allegra received her awards at the presentation ceremony at the showground.  Her Silver award was presented by the comedian Romesh Ranganathan.