A Needle and Thread to Threadneedle Street

Magdalena_web_iTailored to perfection: Magdalena models the garments she designed and made for the Merchant Tailors – The Golden Sheers Award 2009.

April 2009

Former Lambeth College student Magdalena Handwerker has had her handy-work recognised recently at a prestigious awards evening on London’s Threadneedle Street.

Magdalena, who studied on our ‘Fashion Drawing and Design’ and ‘Soft Tailoring’ courses at the Adare Centre last year, entered a piece of her work in the ‘Merchant Tailors – The Golden Shears Award 2009’.  This is a notoriously difficult competition to be short-listed for as it invites entries from all across the UK.  The competition aims to provide an opportunity to showcase the work of the UK’s top tailoring students and apprentices. 

The garments were judged for style and technical ability by a panel of VIPs, which included Executive Producer David Furnish, Fashion Expert Caryn Franklin, Style Writer James Shertwood, Savile Row Tailor Patrick Grant and Director of Design at Aston Martin Merek Reichmann.  Out of a group of twenty-six finalists Magdalena’s work finished in the top five.

Magdalena said: “To receive such a glowing accolade for the quality of my work is so uplifting and inspiring.  I came to Lambeth College to learn new skills having worked for five years as a seamstress.  I wanted to achieve more with my career and I now feel that I’m well on my way.  My time at the Adare Centre has been wonderful for my confidence and has definitely opened doors for me to a glittering career in the fashion industry.  My tutor, Karina, believed in my abilities and gave me lots of encouragement.  I am so pleased with what I have achieved so far.”

Magdalena is now studying Pattern Technology at the London School of Fashion and intends to progress to a BA (Hons) Degree in Bespoke Tailoring next year.