Arts University Bournemouth graduate, Polly Turnbull, is celebrating her first year work anniversary at Bournemouth-based corporate wardrobe specialist, 4couture.

The company, which specialises in stylish corporate clothing and merchandise, hosted a tea party to mark the occasion. Polly was joined by the company’s Director, Lisa Morelli, and her all-female team of colleagues.

The BA (Hons) Fashion Studies graduate joined 4couture last year and was attracted by the fun, creative vibe and hands-on job role with big prospects and an impressive list of local, national and international clients.

Working as part of the creative team at 4couture’s in-house studio, Polly designs and creates corporate apparel for clients in the UK, Europe and Middle East. As an integral part of the team, Polly has gained invaluable experience and put her skills to good use in fashion design and manufacture, working with clients in a full cycle from brief and concept, to fitting days, uniform implementation and delivery.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my first year in industry at 4couture and am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to pursue my career in a vibrant, fastpaced environment. Being part of a close knit team has allowed me to experience all aspects of the business – from concept design to fabric sourcing, sewing, meeting customers face-to-face and providing alterations at our fitting days - something I don’t think I would have achieved in a larger, corporate firm. My role is really hands-on; 4couture has not only allowed me to grow my creative skills but also my commerciality, and right on my doorstep in Dorset … it really is a dream come true!” said Polly.

Lisa Morelli, Director at 4couture said “Polly is a real asset to our business; we are so fortunate to have such a large pool of talent from local Universities. Over the last few years, we have offered internships and summer placements to students which are so rewarding but we were really delighted to appoint a graduate on a permanent basis as the business continues to grow. Fostering talent is integral to our success – Polly came equipped with the skills required for the fashion industry, along with boundless energy, business acumen, new ideas and an impressive eye for detail”.

Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) commented “At AUB, we focus on turning creativity into careers. Our Fashion Studies course is Skillset approved, with 93% of our graduates in work or further study within 6 months of graduating. We regularly work with Dorset-based brands and businesses and are thrilled at the success of our students, both locally and nationally”.

Next up for Polly is sourcing new fabrics at an upcoming international textile fair and developing concepts for a restaurant chain development, due to open in the Summer.