Fashions inspired by Buddhism at City and Islington College

Published: 1st July, 2011
by Charlotte Sundberg

FASHION students showcased designs inspired by Buddhist philosophy at a catwalk show at City and Islington College last week.

Student Jelena Stepanenko, who hopes to become an independent fashion designer, said that Buddhist philosophy and meditation inspired her collection.

The lining of some of her jackets have silk paintings in bright colours that are not visible when worn but are meant to reflect Buddhist ideas. Ms Stepanenko said: “Everybody has an aura and energy. You can’t really see it, but it is there.”

The 13 students displaying their work were inspired by everything from street wear to glamorous style icons of the past. 

The end-of-the-year show is an annual event where fashion insiders, friends and family can see the work of students studying for foundation degrees at the college.