Derby based designer Ashleigh Laverick knew very early on she wanted a career in fashion. ”Fashion design is fulfilling, creative and exciting and I couldn’t imagine my life without it.”

Having recently completed placements with George Asda and John Lewis, Ashleigh gained an immense amount of experience and acquired new skills including garment design, print design and buying. “This experience has given me a real insight into the industry and I can’t wait to finish university and start working as a designer in women’s wear or children’s wear.” As well as clothing, Ashleigh also designs small gifts and carries out craft projects to really put all she has learnt into practice.

Ashleigh is inspired by her natural surroundings when designing, mixing different colours, textures and patterns to create an eclectic mix. She is also an avid fan of Miu Miu, Lanvin, Prada and Matthew Williamson “for his bold take on prints and colour.”

Multi-talented Ashleigh will be showcasing her Ready to Wear collection alongside 24 other finalists at the Birmingham Conservatoire on 23rd October 2010.