W: Maximiliano Dubois

The Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) Graduate Fashion Show 2023 was far more than a simple runway event; it was a high-octane declaration of the North’s creative sovereignty. Held against the backdrop of an industry increasingly focused on the "commercial," LJMU’s Class of 2023 leaned into the avant-garde, presenting collections that balanced technical precision with deeply personal storytelling. The atmosphere was electric, fueled by upbeat soundtracks and a palpable sense of urgency to redefine what "modern British fashion" looks like outside the London bubble.

What struck the audience most was the juxtaposition of fabric and form. This wasn't a show of safe silhouettes. Instead, graduates showcased a fearless approach to textile manipulation, blending traditional craftsmanship with industrial materials. We saw a heavy emphasis on "objects as accessories," where the line between garment and sculpture blurred. This experimental edge was anchored by a strong commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, themes that didn't just feel like buzzwords but were woven into the very DNA of the collections through upcycled materials and diverse casting that celebrated the reality of the human form.

Ultimately, the LJMU 2023 showcase proved that the next generation of designers is not interested in following the status quo. They are looking at the world with a critical eye, using fashion as a medium to discuss identity, ecology, and the digital age. It was a polished, professional display that suggested many of these graduates are ready to step straight from the studio into the global fashion conversation, carrying the grit and vibrancy of Liverpool with them.