from VOGUE ITALIA
by ELISA PERVINCA BELLINI
Katie Ann McGuigan, graduated from the University of Westminster, is the winner of the Merit Award of AI17 Fashion Scout . Born in Ireland and London studies, the designer successfully follows in the footsteps of past winners such as David Koma, Eudon Choi, Phoebe Inglese, Roberts | Wood, Han Wen and Xiao Li.
The graduate collection of Katie, inspired by the youth groups in the Russian and Ukrainian prisons, uses simple tools to create a myriad of interactions and emotions. His playful use of vinyl prints on leather, geometric panels are laser cut and a mix of digital and silkscreen prints give life to complex aesthetically pleasing silhouette. The designer combines the precise cut collars, pleated skirts and coats to A with flared dresses, flowing skirts and soft, a further demonstration of his skills in approaching linear and circular patterns.
"After reaching the goal of creating a vibrant and rich collection of prints for my degree to which they are enormously proud, I am extremely grateful to have been chosen for the Merit Award for Fashion Scout, and to have had the opportunity to be yet ambitious initiative in my work and to create a new collection and launch my brand, while providing me a wonderful platform to make his mark as a young emerging designers, and then realizing one of my goals. I am so grateful for this opportunity and look forward to continuing my path."
Martyn Roberts, founder and creative director of Scout, commented: "The Katie collection is proof of his great craftsmanship. It is seen clearly during the selections that his work would have won the Merit Award. I am happy that with our initiative we are able to support young talented new graduates and help them realize their dreams. "
Katie Ann with the Merit Award got the opportunity to present a fully sponsored parade to be held February 18, 2017 at 16.30 at London Fashion Week, in addition to participate in the Fashion Scout London Exhibition.