In August 2019 I went on a weeks work experience at FatFace HQ. They are based in Havant, Hampshire, UK. This was part of the prize when my designs were chosen to be featured on their scarves.
I met the other winners, Jade and Claire at FatFace along with Emma from the Prince's Trust. We started by finding out the schedule for the week and then had a tour around the head office. The building itself is very interesting and has a very relaxed feel and creative vibe. After the tour we found out more about the buying department with accessories and womens-wear. This was where we saw the first glimpse of our product samples which was very exciting.
The day soon flew by and before we knew it we were heading home. We met the design team on Tuesday. It was so interesting to find out where and how they gather together their inspirations for each collection. We also found out about where their textiles are printed and we found out more about the screen printing process.
I popped into the FatFace Foundation Shop in Havant on my way home. They sell unworn outlet stock at discounted prices and 100% of the profits go to charities and local projects - how amazing is that? If you're a lover of FatFace then it's definitely worth a visit!
Wednesday we spent time finding out about visual merchandising and we were given an insight into their Christmas window display. Lunchtime was extra special as we had the pleasure of meeting the CEO of FatFace, Liz Evans. It was so kind of her to take time out of her busy schedule to talk to us. Liz was very passionate about the Prince's Trust and she was so interested in each of our business ideas and was really encouraging.
Thursday we found out about e-commerce and their sustainability goals. In the afternoon we went on a tour of the Dunsbury warehouse. It's situated just down the road from the head office and it's so interesting to find out what happens once your order has been placed online. When we arrived back to the head office we were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a photo shoot in action. Little did we know a few months later it would be us in front of the camera!
Friday we were able to re-visit an area that we wanted to find out more about, so we went back to print design and children's wear.
This is a very condensed version of the week but it really was an amazing week and a experience I will never forget. Everyone we met was so friendly and really generous with their time. I came away buzzing and feeling truly inspired.
Hannah
Comments