Upcoming Liverpool fashion school reveals designer lineup

A new fashion school launching in Liverpool this month has revealed the full list of local and international designers on board.

The Rare School of Fashion is being co-founded by entrepreneur Shaun Kearney, the vice president of US clothing label Design for Fabletics, which was set up by Hollywood actress Kate Hudson.

Clare Wilson, the head of Liverpool-based accessory brand Nook & Willow, is set to lead the training course on offer at the school.

The news follows the appointment of London-based designer Matt Moore to the school’s team. Matt is one of the founders of fashion brand ADYN, which has been worn by rapper Tinie Tempah, singer Rihanna and actor Jamie Foxx.

Nook & Willow’s Clare Wilson said: “I’m excited to see what the young talent of the city have to offer, and to guide them through the process of turning their ideas into something that looks great and people can wear.

“Liverpool has a reputation of being very style-conscious, and I think it’s a great climate for young designers. I’m looking forward to seeing what they come up with.”

Merseyside designer Kirsty Doyle will also join the Rare School of Fashion, as will online jewellery business owner Benna Harry. Meanwhile, stylist Joanne Watkinson, who helped set up women’s clothing company Very Exclusive, will teach classes at the organisation’s Wood Street base.

The director and principal of Rare School of Fashion and Rare Studio Liverpool, Michelle Faulkner, commented: “It’s an honour to team up with some of the world’s most respected designers, and we’re all looking forward to cementing Liverpool’s place on the fashion map.

“In everything we’ve done so far with the performing arts school, we’ve focused on nurturing the talent of young people who’ve had difficulty accessing high-level training.”

She added: “Me and my business partner Lindsay Inglesby are going to continue to exercise these values in the Rare School of Fashion, giving exceptionally talented young people a shot in the industry of their dreams.”