Leeds Beckett student wins Burberry award for best collection

Leeds Beckett University fashion student Cinnamon Clark has won the prestigious Burberry award for best collection ahead of the annual LBU Graduate Fashion Show, set for 6th June 2025.

Clark was selected by Burberry staff, who have mentored final-year BA (Hons) Fashion Design students at the Leeds School of Arts for the third year running.

Senior Burberry staff worked with students on a live project, starting with a brief and providing mentoring on key issues such as pricing, commerciality and logistics.

After shortlisting, the best portfolios were judged and the finalists interviewed.

This year, students were encouraged to look beyond traditional areas like womenswear and menswear, considering print, knit, accessories and childrenswear.

Clark won for her collection of stage outfits designed for Leeds-based band Until Joy.

All fabrics used were either sourced from charity shops or friends, with a focus on supporting local music talent and sustainability.

Clark said: “Meeting with Burberry was extremely exciting for my course mates and I.

“Working with them was an amazing opportunity to learn what the larger industry is focused on.

“Winning this award means absolutely everything to me. A lot of undergrads can probably relate to the feeling of fear that they may have made a wrong choice coming to university, or they could've done more etc.”

Clark added: “I'm a massively anxious 'what if' person but receiving this award has reassured me that everything was worth it, and I should believe in myself more. I do have a talent, and I am proud of myself.”

Kevin Walton, vice president for product development, RTW at Burberry, said: “I believe Cinnamon was a truly deserving recipient of our award this year.

“I deeply admired her clear vision and creativity. She delivered a collection that was not only sustainable and technically refined but also inclusive, demonstrating a thoughtful and forward-thinking approach to fashion.

“She is undoubtedly a rising talent to watch closely, and I feel privileged to have worked with her at the very beginning of what promises to be an inspiring journey.”

Sam Hudson-Miles, course director, said: “Leeds Beckett Fashion is thrilled to celebrate our dynamic partnership with Burberry, now in its third year. Burberry's commitment to providing consistent mentorship and support has offered our students invaluable industry insight.

“Their guidance has not only prepared our students for the industry but has also offered direct feedback on the commercialisation of their designs and prototypes, along with personalised 1:1 guidance on carving out their potential niche within the fashion world.

“Burberry's support has been extraordinary, encompassing fabric donations, live projects, industry visits, mentorship and their generous sponsorship of our 2024 graduate fashion show.”

Hudson-Miles added: “We are excited to continue this incredible journey with Burberry and look forward to further developing our relationship.”.