Kangan Institutes Textile and Fashion Hub - News

Myer's Fashions on the Fields celebrated its 50th year at the 2012 Melbourne Cup in Flemington.

Kangan Institute is proud to announce that Michelle Rae, a fashion designer from Victoria was awarded third place at the event after utilising the digital print facilities at the Textile and Fashion Hub (an industry partnership between Kangan Institute, TFIA and the Victorian Government).

The Myer Fashions on the Field competition remains Australia's largest and most prestigious outdoor fashion event as well as being one of the main highlights (and drawcards) of the Spring Racing Carnival each year.

Michelle was both surprised and proud upon hearing the announcement that M Couture (her design label) made the top three at the competition. "For a small time designer like myself to have the privilege of competing with some very well established and esteemed designers is enough of an honour, but to reach the top three was unbelievably amazing," she said.

A contributing factor to Michelle's success has been the ability to access the state-of-the-art facility, technician and digital technology found at The Textile and Fashion Hub. "I'm extremely excited about the technology available at the Textile and Fashion Hub," she said. "Working locally and with technology aimed towards environmental sustainability also suits me from a conscientious and ethical perspective."

Having always experienced difficulty finding fabrics with suitable prints for her designs, the Textile and Fashion Hub gave Michelle an opportunity to have total control of the finished garment. "Experience creates awareness, and as a result of this experience I would definitely buy a pantone colour print out, and finalise that part of the process before print day in future," she said, reflecting on her new-found knowledge.

Being able to develop a product with the support of the Textile and fashion Hub allowed Michelle to be a part of the process from design concept to watching the print happen and discuss changes to achieve her desired print outcome. "I thrive on working in rooms full of creative people; the bounce is what keeps me going."

Kangan Institute hires out rooms for industry and fashion artists to use at the Textile and Fashion Hub, as well as providing a cutting edge facility for its students to learn and gain valuable industry-relevant skills. "I see myself with likeminded friends having regular days at the Textile and Fashion Hub, helping each other with problem solving and development of ideas," she said. "In my opinion, this is exactly what Melbourne's endangered species (the fashion artist) needs in order to maintain and grow a strong community that recognises and supports each other's talents and work, whilst keeping skills up-to-date."

Michelle has big plans on continuing her current success. "I see myself first and foremost as an artist. Fabric to bodies just happens to be my medium. I always want to be free to remain true to myself. I want to bombard the World with my designs, and increase the opportunities to share what I love doing with those that love what I do, and want to wear it."

Congratulations to Michelle on her current success and we look forward to her further achievements as she makes anticipated inroads within the fashion industry. For more information about Kangan Institute's Centre of Fashion as well as the Textile and Fashion Hub in Richmond call 13 TAFE (13 8233).