The British fashion industry is a multi –million pound international business and British fashion designers are among the most respected in the world. In 2010, the Value of the UK Fashion Industry, as estimated by Oxford Economics for the British Fashion Council tells us that true British brands contribute £2.2billion of manufacturing income into the economy.

With a reputation for creative talent through iconic brands such as Burberry, Ghost, and Fred Perry, and great British designers such as Vivienne Westwood, Betty Jackson, Stella McCartney and Matthew Williamson, British designers and fashion houses are recognised globally.

Designers, long established fashion houses, retailers, and manufacturers that exemplify a thriving industry are showcased through London Fashion Week and, particularly importantly, the future is secured through the talent on show at Graduate Fashion Week.

The scale and importance of the UK industry is reflected by the scope of provision in higher education. The broad range of academic and vocationally oriented degree programmes with the professionally oriented CPD (continuous professional development) and vocational training of private providers give us no excuse for failing to secure the future.

Many are attracted to a career in fashion – but progess is far from easy and entry itself, extremely competitive. They depend on an upsurge in enterprise and entrepreneurialism.

International reputations are built on a well-trained and highly skilled workforce but UK design and manufacturing only have a future if fashion also attracts those with a flair for business.

The vast range of brands, designers, long established fashion houses, retailers, independent shops and manufacturers that exemplify a thriving industry are showcased through London Fashion Week and Graduate Fashion Week.

The scale and importance of the UK industry is reflected by the scope and provision in higher education that delivers a broad range of academic and vocationally oriented degree programmes. In addition, private providers offer professionally oriented CPD (continuous professional development) and vocational training.

Many are attracted to a career in fashion – but progess is far from easy and entry itself, extremely competitive.

International reputations are built on a well-trained and highly skilled workforce.