Hebburn fashion designer's dream comes true as his work hits catwalk of London Fashion Week

Jordan Bagnall launched J.James with a slot at Silk Road Fashion showcase - where 30 items he’d created from scratch at his studio in Hebburn were put on display.

The event was part of London Fashion Week and is aimed at promoting talent from up and coming designers.

The 22-year-old, who now lives in Hebburn after moving from North London at the age of 13, said: “It’s been a hectic few weeks, but I’m absolutely stunned by the reaction to this first collection from my label, J.James.

“The pieces are very much influenced by street wear and identity as a concept with the use of leather, custom-printed fabrics and hand-sewn details which, when combined, create a kind of accessible urban vibe that sums up a kind of fashion-forward, but ultimately very wearable clothing.

“I like to call it dramatic daywear and the collection perfectly encapsulates the ethos of the label.”

He added: “I have wanted to be a fashion designer since I was three years old and have been designing clothes ever since.

“Having my own label is an absolute dream come true for me.

“It’s daunting unveiling your first collection of course but the response has been overwhelmingly positive and I’m already looking ahead to how I can grow and develop the business now I am getting the name out there in the industry.”

Jordan has been supported on his efforts to launch his own label by Tedco Business Support after struggling to find work following his graduation from the University of East London.

Allison Cowen, Tedco Business Support advisor comments: “Jordan is a very talented individual with a life-long passion for fashion design.

“Given his skills, contacts and ambition it was a natural progression for him to create and run his own fashion label.

“He has a very steady head on his shoulders and every stage of the process in setting up the label has been carefully managed ensure the business, as well as the clothing, will be a success.

“I wish him the very best of luck and look forward to working with him more in the coming months as J.James gains momentum.”

For details of start-up programmes offered by Tedco Business Support, visit www.tedco.org.