Most of us neglect our hobbies or lack the time to take them to the next level of recognition. Signs of insurgence against the rat race have often appeared in the form of creative endeavours, such as the Stitch ‘n’ Bitch phenomenon. There has been more emphasis placed on the value of ‘making’ rather than consuming as a way of life. This doesn’t necessarily need to involve morphing into some boho-granny-greasy-green creature. It’s a much more stylish take on ethical living. Take notes from Lily Cole, a fashion model as well as a role model for sustainable fashion and habits. Many lifestyle articles of recent times urge us to take unfeasible amounts of time out for ourselves on an apparently infinite budget (I’m talking to you Marie Claire, Sunday Times Style, Zest etc). But in many cases, the creative streak which energises and motivates you might also be your ticket to success.
If you want to indulge your creative side and happen to be a dab hand with a pair of knitting needles, the latest competition to seek out talented and up-and-coming designers has recently been launched by LoveKnitting, at www.loveknitting.com. The prize for the winner will include invaluable mentoring with the iconic hand knit pattern designer Debbie Bliss. The real jewel in the crown is the chance to gain work experience with Emilio de la Morena in preparation for fashion week September 2014. The judges include the likes of Kate Carter, editor of Life and Style at the Guardian, designer Emma Kasyan and Fashion One TV presenter Stefanie Rycraft-Jones. If you think you might be in with a chance or know of a creative type who might benefit from this opportunity, we say go for it. Even if you lack the skills and patience required for knitting and design at this level, here at Vision Lifestyle we are sure that the entrants will be a display of talent to marvel at.
Art and design is a bit thin on the ground at the University of York, a university which is known more for success in other disciplines. If you have yet to take up your artistic calling, it might be worth getting involved student-run societies such as the Art Society, Baking Society, Fashion Society, KnitSoc, Make-Up Artistry Society or PhotoSoc. If you are in need of a quirky sight for sore eyes, head to see the end of year exhibitions held by fashion and design students elsewhere around the country – they are bound to give you fresh inspiration.
