ECA fashion show , 4-6 May

Edinburgh College of Art fashion show was nothing short of spectacular. As one of Scotland’s key cultural events, the two-hour long spectacle set against the backdrop of the dramatically-lit neo-classical Sculpture Court of the College’s main building was an opportunity for guests and industry insiders to catch a glimpse of the best Scottish designers before they burst onto the world stage at Graduate Fashion Week in June.

The audience were treated to a slick show of collections in fashion, textiles and performance costume. Head of fashion at ECA, Mal Burkinshaw, said the level of professionalism is all thanks to the students “The standard has been so high, and it’s all thanks to them that we have such a professional and well-organised show this year."

As the light’s dimmed and the thumping music began, it became clear we were going to be allowed a close look at the collections, as the first model walked out at eye-level with the crowd seated around the semi-circular catwalk. This unique salon-style format is more commonly seen at haute couture shows in Paris and facilitates a more intimate effect.

The first collection to emerge was Tailoring: Fashion as Communication by year 3, followed by the unique All Walks project, an initiative founded by Caryn Franklin, Debra Bourne and Erin O’Connor, working with influential catwalk designers and top industry creatives to celebrate diversity between body shape, age and race within the fashion industry.

Next up, the one we were all waiting for: the final year fashion design students’ sumptuous spectacle. Impressive collections included 'Where Are We Going? Always Home' by Pamela Hill, a knitwear collection inspired by warmth, comfort, pattern and wood carvings. David Vallance and Anna Stephenson also wowed the audience with their sexy and edgy, and feminine and floral collections respectively.

As the only Scottish art college invited to show collections at Graduate Fashion Week in London, Edinburgh College of Art has a prestigious reputation to uphold in the fashion world. After leaving the ECA show last night, it’s crystal clear the class of 2011 are leaving with the fashion world firmly at their feet.