Student fashion designer is cut above the rest

17th February 2015

A fashion design student from Sheffield Hallam University has made it through to the finals of the most prestigious tailoring competition in the world.

Emma Mortimer, studying for a postgraduate degree in fashion design at Sheffield Hallam, has been selected for the bi-annual Merchant Tailors Golden Shears contest, run by Savile Row Bespoke. As part of her course, she completed placements at Dugdale Bros & Co, Carl Stuart Tailoring in Ossett and Chris Kerr, London. Tailoring students and apprentices from throughout the country compete for the coveted Golden Shears award, with prizes totalling £4,500. Each entrant makes a tailored outfit and supporting art work for first stage judging, by top bespoke tailors and industry experts. Marks are awarded for technical skills, such as design, cutting and tailoring. Emma said: "As well as learning professional tailoring skills, my placements gave me an insight into the pressures of the industry, such as producing work to tight deadlines and working with clients. "Since doing the placements, I've really enjoyed putting everything I've learned into practice in the workshops at university." David Morrish, course leader for fashion design at Sheffield Hallam, said: "The standard in this competition is extremely high, so for Emma to make it this far is fantastic. Her work shows a high level of understanding of tailoring methods, and I'm very pleased that her skills have been recognised in this way." The winners will be revealed at an awards ceremony at the Merchant Tailors' Hall in London, on Monday 16 March. At this prestigious event, the Golden Shears and £2000 are awarded to the entrant with the highest total of marks. The runner-up receives Silver Shears and £1500, and a 'Rising Star' wins Silver Shears and £1000.