But, for the first time, judges were torn when awarding the top prize Gold Award of £20,000 and it was split between two winners. Nick shares the prize with Jasper Chadprajong from Ravensbourne College.
Presenting their award Victoria Beckham said of the show; "It has been fantastic. Such an experience to be here and to be a judge. The talent is phenomenal. I've had so much fun." Nick said he was “gob smacked, astounded and delighted" to win the prize. "The other work at the show was just so fantastic and I’m frankly amazed that I have won, " he said. "I was given really useful and encouraging advice from one of the judges, Alber Elbaz from Lanvin, who suggested that I should style my collection by accessorising with Wellington boots. He even went so far as to actually pay me to go out and buy the wellies so that I could do this. "I think that the judges were impressed by the fact that I am very open to constructive criticism and this might have helped with the win." Knitwear design The South Gloucestershire student chose to specialise in knitwear design and spent his work placement with John Smedley, a leading knitwear company, who were so impressed with his placement work that two of his designs have been included in this year’s autumn collection. “I have been interviewed by John Smedley and I’m awaiting the outcome of that interview. I would love to work for them as I firmly believe that there is no better knitwear company”, said Nick. | "The other work at the show was just so fantastic and I’m frankly amazed that I have won." | | Nick Thomas |
Nick’s collection is aimed at the high-end market. “My inspiration comes from all things British like hounds tooth patterns, wool, paisley and Fairisle. A visit to Tyntesfield this year also informed my palette choice of Farrow and Ball looking colours,” said Nick. Nick's collection includes tailored wool trousers with unusual sock extensions and knitwear designs featuring floral patterns based on agapanthus, circles, stripes and an adaptation of tradition paisley and Fairisle patterns decorated with accessories including fabric buttons. Professor Paul Gough, Dean of the Bristol School of Art, Media and Design said: “We are thrilled for Nick’s well deserved win. He is a very talented designer and we expect to hear more about him in the future. This is the second time that a UWE student has walked away with the top prize, Jess Noy won this coveted award two years ago. | 
