Where Are They Now? - Alex Terris

Alex graduated from Solent University in 2018 with her graduate collection titled “A Perception of Beauty”. It looks towards the formulation of identity, dress and the body politic, demonstrating how someone’s exterior does not represent their interior. Fashion is in the detail, there is more than what you originally believe. Alex explained how she explored the multiple layers of intelligence, personality and the cultural practices of dress through techniques such as pattern, scale, bold silhouettes, edgy pattern cutting techniques and fabrics that challenge the perception of identity.

“It was about my frustration of being told I wore too much make-up. I felt people would judge me on my appearance, not my ability in the fashion world or my intelligence. People often didn’t take my work seriously. I explored the false aspects of life and incorporated this into my work.”

Alex was lucky enough to be selected to showcase her collection at Graduate Fashion Week. She admitted it can be hard to let go, allowing the stylists and make-up artists work on your collection, but not everything can be controlled. She described the Solent show as one of the best nights of the year. Students and lecturers come together to produce a lovely experience, bringing friends and family to celebrate and speculate, alongside industry specialists.

“I will remember my graduate shows forever. It’s the time when all your hard work comes together and you can sit back and watch everything you’ve done right in front of you, it’s an amazing feeling!”

Alex is currently working as a Buyers Admin Assistant at Dorothy Perkins, this involves supporting the buyer to build a range for the customer, managing samples and ensuring products arrive in store on time. She also gets a lot of creative freedom to design, develop and propose prints and shapes that fit with the range. She also spends time researching new ideas to market high end trends to retail for their customer base.

Alex explained how she aims to continue developing her professional career at Dorothy Perkins, making connections and gaining industry experiences. Her ultimate career goal would be to own a shop with trends she’s sourced herself, alongside her own clothing range.

In regards to inspiration, Alex told us that many people have inspired her, famous and not. Alexander McQueen is one designer that allowed her to fall in love with fashion; he demonstrated a way in which fashion can make an uncomfortable concept have the most beautiful outcome.

“He inspired me to push myself and look differently at the world of fashion. His brain was the most magical and dark place and he encouraged me to learn how to channel my anger/hurt through the art of design. His impact on the fashion industry has carried me through my own creative journey.”

Alexander McQueen

When asked for advice on final year at university, Alex replied “living and breathing fashion is the best thing you can do”. The course will take over your life but as long as you’re crating something you’re passionate about, it becomes a new way of life. Explore your mistakes, they may lead onto something better. Keep exploring new ideas and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone.

“I put my heart and soul into my final collection and it really did pay off. Don’t give up!”

Alex’s work can be found through her Instagram page @alexandraterris.

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We want to say thank you so much to Alex for taking the time to be interviewed for our blog! If you liked this post, check out our last Where are they now? with Lydia Rose.

Credit to Loren Parkhurst for this footer graphic.