In the lead up to our 2025 Graduate Shows, we’re celebrating the creativity and talent of our graduating students by sharing their stories and showcasing their incredible work. We spoke with Fashion Design with Business Studies BA(Hons) student Isabella Brien about the course, their influences and advice to their younger self.

Please tell us a bit about your work and your influences

My work explores and plays around with structures whilst also having a sexy and empowering feeling. I want people to question the wearability of my garments and yet have the desire to strut around in it. I also like the idea of clothing being classic/timeless and what the meaning of that is to different identities.

What made you choose your course?

I’ve always known I wanted to be a designer, growing up with my mum being a massive influence and a very creative household. Studying textiles helped form my fashion design ideas and find a love for fabric manipulation and exciting techniques. I also chose this course due to it including business studies, I believe it’s good to have a business understanding for the industry.

Can you tell us about your favourite part of your studies and how it helped the development of you and your practice.

I’m very glad I chose Brighton university, the course was good I have made lifelong friends and it has a very good work environment in the studio, as well as great teachers and technicians.

Can you tell us about any staff who particularly inspired you?

Craig Higgins has seen my work develop over the past few years, I respond very well to his notes and his attentions to detail, he has a good understanding of my design identity and has helped make it what it is today.

If you did a placement or work experience, can you tell us about it and any support you received?

I loved my placement year, I did 5 months at Tara Hakin, in London and another 6 months at Carven in Paris. I learnt so many valuable things, industry and creative wise. A piece of advice I would give is to not be afraid to do the cold emails and to be patient. I emailed about 30 companies and heard back from 3, however it worked out very well for me in the end.

What does Brighton mean to you now?

Brighton is an amazing town with great people, when the sun is out it is the best place to be. There is so much to do and something for everyone.

Can you tell us your plans after graduation?

I hope to return back to Paris, I am also considering doing a masters. I feel I still have a lot to learn and want to find my niche in design, making me a stronger candidate going into the industry.

Finally, if you could give your 17-year-old self any advice about going to university what would it be?

I would tell my 17-year-old self, that you’re going to have so much fun at university and it will be challenging at times but it’s all worth it in the end and keep doing what you love.