Designer makes her way in fashion world

11 October 2006

RICKINGHALL'S answer to Elizabeth Emanuel is blazing a trail through the bridalwear world after successfully completing a degree at the Birmingham Institute of Art and Design.

Claire Dunkley, 21, showcased a collection of six wedding dresses that were inspired by different cultures as part of her degree and is now ready to forge a career designing wedding dresses.

She said: “I have always wanted to make dresses and I had so much fun with my degree that I want to continue. My mother is also a dress designer who involved me as her 'assistant'.

“I have learned a lot from her and built on that during my degree.”

During Miss Dunkley's three-year course she spent time with a bridal couture company to gain experience in the production of bridal gowns, while also getting involved in a marketing campaign that included a catwalk show.

In her final year she worked on a bridal collection that was inspired by Asian influences. “I tried to use influences from different cultures, so I took bright Asian beaded fabrics and designed using mainly western styles, forming my East meets West collection.”

If you would like to find out more about Mrs Dunkley's wedding designs visit her website at www.claire

dunkley.com or contact her on 01379 898064.