It was such a privilege to welcome fashion designer Drew Kent back to Carmel yesterday to deliver an ‘Inspire Me’ talk and workshop to our students.

Since leaving Carmel in 2020 with Distinctions in UAL Extended Diploma and Art Foundation, Drew has been on an incredible creative journey. He moved to London to study BA (Hons) Fashion Design: Knitwear at UAL’s prestigious Central Saint Martins, where he quickly made waves. His remarkable work has been featured in leading publications such as Dazed, Hunger, Pop, and Glamcult. He was also named an ‘Upcoming Designer’ by British Vogue, showcased in the ‘Queen’ exhibition by Magnus Hastings at the Walker Art Gallery, and selected for the Central Saint Martin’s Press Show with his stunning final collection, ‘Florescence’. Drew graduated with First Class Honours last summer.

Since then, his career has gone from strength to strength. His unique, innovative knitwear has captured the attention of celebrities including Joe Lycett, Black Peppa, J Mac, Ottilie Wallis, and even the Scissor Sisters! He also created a show-stopping crochet piece inspired by the Leigh Bowery exhibition at Tate Modern.

Following his visit, Drew said:

“It was really lovely to be back where I started my journey and hopefully inspire the next generation of artists and designers at Carmel. I felt the students really connected with my message, thinking outside the box and staying true to yourself.

It was such a joy to catch up with my former tutors and show them how much I’ve grown since my time here. Some even joined in on the crochet workshop, which was fabulous! I had a very successful day and I hope to return soon to inspire future year groups.”

We couldn’t be prouder of everything Drew has accomplished, and wish him all the best with his upcoming collection. We can’t wait to see where his talent and vision take him next!

Follow Drew’s Instagram to read more about his incredible successes.