Spotlight on Talent : David Dwyer

Studied: Level 1 & Level 2 Awards in Pattern Cutting followed by HNC & HND Diplomas in Fashion and Textiles and Level 6 BA Hons Fashion Design (Top-Up)
Progression: Designer

What started out as a hobby for David Dwyer five years ago is now set to become an exciting, new venture. David is preparing to launch a luxury menswear brand for the high end of the retail industry. This comes after achieving a full honours degree at Walsall College, topped off at Birmingham City University.

The 33-year-old has spent the last six months building his own studio space in Birmingham and producing designs.

“The menswear market is rather plain, so I’m keen to produce a range with a slight twist to it,” explained David. “I’m veering towards luxury tailoring with embroidery and printed lining.

“Men are willing to experiment a bit when it comes to fashion. This is something I’d like to capitalise on.”

David was no different to many designers in that he grew up with a love of clothing and enjoyed shopping. However, the idea of creating his own outfits had never occurred to him. And things might have stayed that way if he hadn’t been joined a sewing circle with one of his friends.

This led to David signing up for an evening class in pattern cutting. He enjoyed this so much that he progressed from Level 1 to Level 6 while working full-time for a gas and electrical training centre.

“Juggling a degree-level course and a job has definitely had its challenges, but it’s about doing what makes you happy,” said David.

“Studying at college had its advantages,” he continued. “The fees were half what they would have been if I’d gone to university.

“Naturally, as an undergraduate you take ownership of your learning. While this was no different for me, I knew my lecturers would be willing to go out of their way to support me. It meant I could achieve in the best possible way.”

A highlight of David’s studies was an end of year fashion show where he found his own models to showcase his designs on the catwalk.

“It was a great industry experience,” David recalled. “It was also a strong end goal to have in mind throughout the year. Knowing that your designs aren’t just going on a mannequin but that someone is actually going to bring them to life and move around in them.

“It felt really special when this happened.”

Recognition for David’s talent is also gaining momentum.  This is thanks to his involvement in Leicester Fashion Week in 2019 and a Birmingham fashion show. Photographs of his designs have also appeared in magazines produced in Berlin and New York.

All this, along with his Instagram handle @daviddwyer83 indicate that David has plenty more special moments coming his way in future.