REFASHIONED CATWALK: WHERE HERITAGE MEETS THE FUTURE OF FASHION 

Student Collaboration at The Whitaker, 26th February 2026

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In February, The Whitaker Museum and Art Gallery became more than a gallery space; it transformed into a living, breathing catwalk. ReFashioned Catwalk, which took place on Thursday 26th February and presented in partnership with The Whitaker, invited audiences to experience fashion as performance, storytelling, and bold creative expression.

Students from The Manchester College, as a new generation of emerging designers, unveiled original collections that reflected their individual artistic visions, technical skill, and fresh approaches to contemporary fashion design. From experimental silhouettes to thoughtful material choices, the catwalk saw an inspiring showcase of creativity and craftsmanship, set against the rich cultural backdrop of the museum. As models moved through the space, the boundaries between exhibition and runway dissolved, offering guests an immersive and unexpected fashion experience.

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"Dear All, It was wonderful to have you all with us for the fashion show this week! Huge congratulations to all the students, your outfits looked amazing, so professional, and creative.  Everyone was extremely polite and worked hard to make the event a real success. Well done to the staff who looked after things so well and ensured the smooth running of the day. The quality of the work, and the overall professionalism of the students, is testament to your support and encouragement of them. Our house is your house.  Please keep visiting, let me know if there is ever anything I can do to help you in the future, and I hope we can work with you again, Kindest Regards..." - Gaynor Seville, Creative Director, The Whitaker.

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“This event is a fantastic opportunity for our students to present their work in a professional, public setting and to see their ideas come to life beyond the classroom. Partnering with The Whitaker shows them how fashion can live in cultural and heritage spaces, while building confidence and encouraging them to take their practice seriously as emerging designers.” Kate Heaton, Employability Engagement Leader, The Manchester College.

"Inspired by the collections at The Whitaker, I’ve created a jacket and trouser set using only recycled materials. Upcycled nails and layered frills mimic reptile scales and fish gills, creating movement and texture. My work challenges the use of animal skins and taxidermy, showing how fashion can be sustainable, creative, and striking."  - Oliver Payne, 2nd year Fashion student.

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"Inspired by the coral sculptures at The Whitaker, I’ve created a long blue dress that celebrates the unique shapes and textures of coral reefs. Using deadstock fabrics, dispersed dye, lino print, and 3D fabric manipulation, I aimed to capture the magic of coral while keeping the project completely sustainable." - Evie Johnson, 2nd year Fashion student.

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"I’m really grateful for the chance to work with The Whitaker and explore its amazing collections. It’s been so inspiring to take what I’ve seen in the museum and turn it into something I can wear and bring to life in the fashion show." Josie Trow,  2nd year Fashion student.​​​​​​​​​​​