UCA graduate wins top spot at Portobello Market

UCA graduate Jo Hawtree is following in the footsteps of famous designers Vivienne Westwood and Ozwald Boateng by selling her designs at London's Portobello Market.

The 24-year-old, who completed a fashion degree at the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) Epsom campus in 2010, recently won the chance to take up a free pitch at the market for six months.

The competition was organised by the Market Enterprise Launch Pad (MELP) and candidates had to convince judges that they had a successful business proposition.

Jo, who is originally from York but now lives in London, explained: "As part of the competition I had to do a Dragon's Den style pitch. It was extremely nerve wracking but I managed to get my ambition and passion to succeed across to the judges."

Jo, who runs her own menswear label Gunsmoke and Lavender, is relishing the opportunity to showcase her ready-to-wear range comprising printed t-shirts, jackets, jeans and men's accessories.

She said: "Portobello Market is such a famous and respected market. Winning the competition is a golden opportunity to promote my business and start selling my garments to the public with me as the face of the business, offering a personalised service to my customers."

Calum Mackenzie, Associate Dean at UCA, said: "Jo's innovative designs stood out while she was at university and here at UCA we are delighted to hear about her success.

"The BA (Hons) Fashion course at UCA Epsom has a strong track record of developing our students' creativity, and equipping them with the skills they need to build a reputation in a highly competitive industry."

Described as edgy and extravagant, Jo's Gunsmoke and Lavender label is already attracting acclaim, and garments from her collection were recently featured in Harper's Bazaar. For further information visit: www.gunsmokeandlavender.com