Manchester’s Growing Fashion Scene
Manchester’s fashion talent pool is changing and reflecting the city’s growing fashion chops. The influx of creatives from London is noticeable, and talent is ready to move to Manchester. In the past, not many people knew about Manchester brands, but now they are putting the city on the map.
Attracting Fashion Talent
While Manchester fashion talent is increasingly attractive, it is still displacing e-commerce and sportswear/casual fashion due to the fast pace. London is still sharper when it comes to fashion with a capital F, and it is important to find talents of luxury brands. In Manchester, the talent pool is more inspired and less focused on luxury brands.
A City with a Rich Fashion History
Manchester was the first fashion city in the world, and it’s nice to see how things are coming back. The city has a lot of creative minds, and it’s a shame not to utilize them. With the rise of local brands, Manchester is becoming a hub for fashion talent.
A Supporting Local Community
Manchester people come behind their brands, forming a solid local basis for young labels to build at home and expand worldwide. The streetwear and footwear label Clints is one of the most popular local labels in the city. It’s one of many Manchester brands born from Covid Times, and the founder Junior Clint states that the city’s supportive community was instrumental in his success.
Building a Fashion Hub
The Manchester Fashion Institute at Manchester Metropolitan University is one of the largest fashion schools in the UK, with over 1,800 students. However, more brands are needed to provide job opportunities for the next generation of designers and fashion changers. It’s the responsibility of local brands to build shops in the north and create a thriving fashion scene.
Nadine Merabi, founder of the eponymous brand, which achieved sales of £40 million in 2024, says, “We have a lot of creative minds in the north. And I think it’s a shame not to leave them. Manchester was the first fashion city in the world. It’s nice how things are back.” She adds that she saw a shift in the city’s fashion scene, but it will take a little longer to fully develop.
