Since its inception in 2016, Fashanne has become the leading not-for-profit fashion design programme and live awards show outside the capital, bringing together students, universities and industry leaders under one roof. Over ten years, Fashanne has remained steadfast in its mission: to empower emerging designers, champion new voices, open doors that might otherwise remain closed and help secure the future of British fashion.
From two awards and no sponsors in 2016, the programme has grown to offer 11 different awards, exclusive workshops with global fashion brands and an awe-inspiring live awards show each year – it’s growth proving just how vital a platform they are for nurturing the next generation of British designers.
A Decade of Impact:
Over 500 students have participated in the Fashanne Programme since 2016 from across eight universities in and around the Midlands.
Over 30 leading global brands have partnered with Fashanne, delivering exclusive workshops, webinars and even launched co-branded products with companies such as Next and Paul Smith.
Since introducing industry-led internships in 2022, 32 placements have been awarded through companies including Pentland Brands, Next, Paul Smith, ITL Group, Stoll GB, GreenEarth Cleaning and Waring Brooke—significantly enhancing graduate employment prospects.
Over 100 hours of mentoring have also been provided through brand sponsors to Fashanne winners helping to navigate their fledgling careers.
Alongside the mentoring, over £16,000 has been awarded through the Fashanne Fund to winners – giving a much needed cash injection for young designers.
Fashanne’s live shows have welcomed over 2,000 guests since the first show at Belvoir Castle in 2016 – our next live show will be on Thursday 25th June 2026 at St Mary’s Church in Nottingham.
The permanent 85-piece strong photographic installation at East Midlands Airport reaches over 1 million visitors annually
And over the years, 81,649 votes have been cast for the prestigious People’s Choice Award – reaching a global audience!
“This decade of impact reflects the power of collaboration between education, industry and emerging creatives. We’re incredibly proud of what has been achieved and even more excited for what the next ten years will bring.” Anne Davies, founder of Fashanne, added: “Together, we are not just shaping fashion—we’re shaping futures.”
Posted on 11 December 2025
