Yorkshire Fashion Student Singled Out by Leading UK Bridal Designer

Online, April 27, 2012 (Newswire.com) - A local fashion designer is celebrating after being offered an internship with one of the UK's leading bridal designers.

Ruth Sturdy, who works at Curvy Bridal in Boroughbridge and studies fashion design at Harrogate College, was shortlisted for the Best Student Designer Award at this year's national Bridal Buyer Awards.

And although she was disappointed not to win, losing out to a Sheffield student, she was thrilled to learn that Ian Stewart - Bridal Designer of the Year on no less than five occasions - had singled her out.

"He said he absolutely loved my design, which was 1970s'-inspired along the competition theme of 'Stepping Back, Looking Forward', and was interested in offering me an internship," explained the 21-year-old from Ripon.

"Although it would have been nice to win the award, in the long term this is even better. I've been in touch with his people and we're making the arrangements. I'm determined to have a career in bridal fashion design and this will be an amazing chance to learn first-hand from one of the country's leaders in the industry."

The next step is to complete her second year degree fashion collection before she takes up the summer placement, based in London, in May. She credits both her studies and her experience at Curvy Bridal with contributing to the opportunity.

"The course at Harrogate College has helped me develop as a designer but, in terms of the bridal market, my time at Curvy Bridal has been invaluable," said Ruth.

"Working with brides-to-be day in, day out means I've had real experience of what they're looking for, while on the business side I know what retailers look for and what will appeal to them. It's really given me an all-round view."

Louise Leong, who owns Curvy Bridal, said she was thrilled for Ruth and was sure the internship with Ian Stewart would provide a great stepping-stone for her career.

"We're delighted to have helped Ruth start her career in bridal design. She's very talented, which is something Ian Stewart clearly spotted. Everyone in the bridal industry knows who he is - it's like being hand-picked by Elton John! I'm sure she'll be a huge success and, who knows, maybe we'll be stocking her designs one day."

Curvy Bridal was established by Louise Leong in 2009 in response to the way many bridal shops treat brides who fail to conform to society's demand for 'size zero' type figures.