Louis Vuitton, Harvey Nichols, Mulberry, and Johnstons of Elgin are among the retailers providing mentorship and sponsorship to second year BA (Hons) Fashion students, as part of an exciting collaboration with high-end shopping destination Multrees Walk.
The initiative will give students invaluable insight into the world of fashion, supporting the gap between education and commercial practice. Students will explore and consider sustainability, responsible material choices, understanding customer profiles, and developing strong brand narratives.
Working closely with its retailers, Multrees Walk will offer real-world expertise and an opportunity to hear first-hand about creative processes, commercial routes and commerce opportunities, at an international level.
Students are creating commercial printed co-ord sets for this project brief, and retailers will provide mentorship sessions, helping them understand how to design for their target audience, and offering feedback on market positioning and concept development. Multrees Walk will then select 10-15 outfits for a public showcase at Genesis Studio in May 2026. The event will offer the public, industry professionals and the wider creative community the chance to engage with the students and their work.
Programme Director Professor Mal James, said: “Partnering with Multrees Walk connects our students to a global network of leading international brands and retailers. This collaboration allows us to bring real life industry insight directly into the classroom. It’s a fundamental opportunity for our students to understand not only the creative demands of fashion, but the business side of the industry, too.”
Leigh Aitchison, Centre Manager at Multrees Walk, said: “We are delighted to be able to support and mentor the students of Edinburgh College of Art this year. By partnering with our retailers, we are able to share industry insight and tangible experiences that bring the education of fashion to life. Together, we will aim to inspire and equip the next generation of fashion designers, buyers and marketeers with the tools they need to navigate in today’s ever-changing fashion landscape.”
Adam Stone, Head of Retail Asset Management UK at Nuveen (landlord of Multrees Walk), said; “Multrees Walk is committed to supporting the fashion industry of the future and our collaboration with Edinburgh College of Art will give students the unique and valuable opportunity to work alongside our wide range of leading global brands and retailers. We are proud to be able to help provide this wonderful opportunity and offer this exceptional mentor and sponsor partnership to the students.”
