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National triumph for town’s fashion talent

Ruhubia Akbor
20/ 3/2008

AN Oldham designer who put a modern twist on the traditional Muslim veil has won a top award for his innovative designs.

The ‘Hijab it Up’ collection by Glodwick resident Tanveer Ahmed scooped the top prize in Birmingham at the Fashion Fusion awards.

The awards aim to find undiscovered fashion designers and Tanveer’s creations managed to catch the eyes of top judges, including Company magazine deputy editor Kirsty Hathaway, Fashion Monitor’s Emily Fleuriot and designer Gavin Douglas.

The judges described his entries as being overwhelmingly creative and noted the commercial value of the designs. They also praised the way his concepts ran throughout the collection.

The former Breezehill and North Chadderton pupil said: "I didn’t even know I’d won. I was selected after they watched a promotional graduate video and saw my work. I had to reshow all seven of my outfits and we were all judged on the day.

"I was backstage when the announcement was made and didn’t realise what had happened. Everyone was clapping me and I was totally shocked and lost for words.

"I was over the moon and didn’t expect it at all, which wows you even more."

Tanveer’s prize includes a photoshoot and two-page spread in Company Magazine and also a work-experience placement with Gavin Douglas, who recently showed at London Fashion week.

The 22-year-old said: "Gavin graduated from Northampton University like myself and has really made it big over the last two years.

"I’m still hoping to set up on my own but want to work with someone else before I do to learn the ropes."

Tanveer’s outfits, made of of a black wool and cashmere mix, have a stong Arabic feel and are decorated with tassels, beads and loose-fitting fabrics.

While waiting to take up his big break, the talented local can be found working at his family’s fabric shop, JD Fashion World, on Bolton Street.

"Everything I do is inventive and creative and that makes me want to do better and strive for me," he said.