Sophia Webster awarded honorary doctorate

Sophia Webster, the celebrated millennial luxury footwear and accessories designer, has been awarded an honorary doctorate from De Montford University.

The honorary doctorate in design is conferred upon individuals who have distinguished themselves in their professional lives and who have made outstanding contributions to the intellectual, cultural and economic life of the nation.

Webster has mentored De Montford students over a number of years and has encouraged them to pursue careers in the fashion industry.

In a motivating acceptance speech the designer, who founded her label in 2012, encouraged students to “be bold, be brave, believe”. She also told them to relish the period of struggle that comes before achievement just as the butterfly, her chosen insignia, "transforms after a period of endeavour".

Sophia Webster is a graduate of Cordwainers College and The Royal College of Art, and her label is now sold in some of the world's most prestigious multi-brand retailers, as well as on her own website and in her own brand boutiques on Mount Street and Sloane Avenue.

Considered one of a new generation of luxury brands for millennials, Webster made a name for herself with her feminine, quirky designs and her early adoption of digital and social media. She has won numerous awards including the coveted BFC Vogue Fashion Fund in 2016.

To learn more about Sophia Webster's business read her in-depth profile in our master database of fashion The Intelligence.