Alumna Hannah Gibbins designs for Debenhams!

A University of Brighton alumna has designed a fashion collection for retail giant Debenhams.

Hannah Gibbins, who graduated in Fashion with Business Studies in 2018, will launch her “pop-up” capsule range HCFG for Autumn/Winter in 12 stores including Brighton’s on Monday 23 September.

She was given the opportunity as part of her prize for winning the Debenhams Menswear Award at last year’s Graduate Fashion Week.

Hannah said designing the range was “the most unbelievable experience” which had made her feel “extremely proud”. She added that the project had

started during her time at the University of Brighton.

“This range signifies the end of my graduate collection,” said Hannah. “Therefore, it seems very appropriate to have it stocked in Brighton where the concept initially began.”

Reflecting on the release of the range, which Hannah described as “unique outerwear statement pieces with contemporary everyday layering”, she said: “It means a lot to me and I am so grateful for this opportunity and more importantly to be given the freedom to create something new, contemporary and commercial.

“It has shown me how I can develop and mature my designs into creating an exciting, wearable brand.”

Elaborating on the aesthetic of her designs, Hannah said there was a “strong attention to detail” and a “perfect balance of relaxed casual styles and affordable luxury”.

The collection was inspired by the countryside of Suffolk, Hannah’s home county – and particularly the handmade crafts of basket weaving and thatched roofs.

She added: “The collection encompasses a strong tonal colour story with an injection of warm spicy hues of mustard, layered with commercial dark bases of navy and grey. This accomplishes a classic look with a natural and organic feel.”