Debenhams names emerging designer Kitty Carr-Lake the 'future of fashion'
As part of Graduate Fashion Week 2025, which wrapped on 16 June at The Truman Brewery in East London, Kitty Carr-Lake from the University of Leeds has been announced as the winner of the second annual 'Designers at Debenhams Catwalk to Commercial' Award.
The initiative is part of the revived Designers at Debenhams programme, originally launched in 1993 as a platform to bridge high fashion and the high street. It famously helped launch the careers of designers including Julien Macdonald, Matthew Williamson and Henry Holland. Now owned by Boohoo Group, Debenhams reignited the programme with a renewed focus on emerging talent last year.
Carr-Lake, the second recipient of the award, will take up a 12-month in-house design role at Debenhams, culminating in an exclusive commercial collection set to launch online in 2026. Her winning collection, which drew inspiration from the impact of UK coastal erosion, featured sixteen minimalist looks crafted in soft neutral tones and rich textures.
Dan Finley, CEO of Debenhams, said: "It’s an honour to once again partner with Graduate Fashion Week and spotlight the incredible talent shaping the future of fashion. Designers at Debenhams has a rich legacy of making high-fashion accessible, and Kitty embodies that spirit. We are thrilled to welcome her into the team as we prepare for her debut collection in 2026."
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Rachel King, Buying & Design Director at Debenhams, added: "The standard of talent this year was outstanding, but Kitty’s collection stood out instantly. It was technically advanced, creatively inspiring and aligned perfectly with what the Designers at Debenhams award represents: originality with commercial appeal."
Carr-Lake follows in the footsteps of last year’s three inaugural winners - Eleanor McMahon, Sonny Matthews and Ivy Chow - who all joined the business for one-year placements and have since transitioned into permanent roles.
Carr-Lake commented: "Graduate Fashion Week was an unforgettable experience, and to now have the chance to create for such a renowned name in British retail is truly inspiring. I’m looking forward to learning, growing, and bringing my designs to life for a broader audience."
