Samuel Burns Portfolio
A selection of certain projects completed at Central St. Martins
London Fashion Week Men’s: Ones to Watch
One of three final articles completed for my Unit 11 final degree portfolio projects. This piece is written in the form of a listicle, and explains why five NEWGEN designers are Ones to Watch at the Spring/Summer 2020 London Menswear Collections.
ESPAGNOLADE Magazine
My final degree project completed in May 2019. ESPAGNOLADE Magazine is an annual publication and website that focuses upon the traditional attire, surrounding flamenco and bullfighting of Southern Spain. It is a much more business oriented magazine as it addresses the contemporary trade that these two national traditions have created, exploring the ways in which the regional costumes of these customs are made, while also looking at how they’re consistently converted into high fashion.
The Marquess and the Musician
An investigative profile feature that explores firsthand, the creation and evolution of the final degree collection of former fashion design and marketing student, James Crewe. Written and researched over the course of six months, this piece discusses the process, inspiration and development of this collection inspired mainly by Debbie Harry and the two lost princes. The press release, also written by me, has also been included below the feature.
Couture, an Irrelevant Fantasy?
Written in the style of The Sunday Times Magazine, this article was written during my second year. A much more historical piece, the feature aims to explain whether couture week still plays a relevant role in today’s society, and argues whether or not it’s still a needed part of the fashion industry.
The Maharajas Splendour
One of three final articles completed for my Unit 11 final degree portfolio projects. Consisting of an introductory article and corresponding Q+A regarding the Maharajas and Mughal Magnificence Christie’s auction in June 2019. The Q+A, conducted with jewellery historian, Vanessa Cron, explores the provenance and cultural importance of the auction pieces. Written in the style of Luxx Magazine
The era of Democratic Divinity
An article written for part of my final degree. This piece is a much more in-depth exploration and investigation into the potential garments that may be used for the future coronation of Prince Charles. The article compares and contrasts the coronations of Charles II, George IV and Elizabeth II alongside what might occur in the next coronation.
Altering Fashion (Prada Fanzine)
Created during my first term at Central St. Martins, this short but successful fanzine was created due to a personal admiration for designer, Miuccia Prada. Featuring various articles discussing the Prada image and the appeal and success of the brand, this fanzine offers an initial insight of my work as a training journalist.
Inside the ‘real’ Dior: 70 years of scandal and intrigue
Written in the style of The Guardian, this article was written during my second year. The feature is a much more investigative historical piece that looked at the treatment of the various designers at Dior, and how despite the perfect, luxurious facade, the treatment of designers such as Yves Saint Laurent can still be considered scandalous today.
Tenacious Legacies
One of three final articles completed for my Unit 11 final degree portfolio projects. This piece looks at the trend for reopening former fashion and questions whether this type of business venture is needed and is financially successful, while also questioning the motives behind the conglomerates responsible.
COMMUTE: EST.2030 (Press Release)
Created in collaboration with fashion print and fashion knitwear students back in 2016. This press pack features photography by Fashion Communication and Promotion student, Elena Jo, and includes the press release for our sustainability project done in partnership with Volkswagen. Our project theme looked at making the commute a sustainable and relaxing alternative to the current day process.
The Fading ‘Traje de Luces’ of Balenciaga
Written in the style of the Financial Times - How to Spend It magazine, this investigative article was written during my second year. The piece looks at the market for vintage Balenciaga and discusses whether or not at the time it was a market worth investing in. Featuring quotes from auctioneer, Kerry Taylor, the piece discusses the price points and attempts to understand why customers were simply not engaging with the brand.
When the Customer becomes the Designer
Written in the style of The Observer Magazine, this article was written during my second year. Looking at the rising popularity of customisation among designer labels, the piece explored why customisation had gained significant popularity at the time.
