Fauve Penketh
Profession
BA Fashion Design: Womenswear alum
College
Central Saint Martins
Person Type
Alumni
Biography
Fauve is a London-based Womenswear Designer, currently working at JW Anderson. Fauve graduated from BA (Hons) Fashion Design: Womenswear at Central Saint Martins in 2023.
Interview
Why did you choose to study BA Fashion Design: Womenswear?
I chose to study BA Womenswear at Central Saint Martins (CSM) because of the strength of its alumni and the creative freedom the course encourages. I have always been drawn to multidisciplinary design, and the structure of the course allowed me to integrate moving image, sculpture, and fine art into my process.
I was also keen to work alongside talented, ambitious peers, both within fashion and across other disciplines at CSM. Being surrounded by creatives from different courses was instrumental in shaping my development as a designer and expanding my perspective.
What have you been working on since graduating?
Since graduating, I have been working at JW Anderson as a Womenswear Designer. It has been an invaluable introduction to the industry, contributing to both collaboration projects and mainline collections. I have had the opportunity to work towards shows and look books.
What was the most interesting project you worked on during your time on the course?
It may sound like an obvious choice, but my final collection was the most exciting and immersive creative endeavour of my time at CSM. From my dissertation through to the final line-up, I was completely absorbed in the project.
Looking back, I realise how rare and special it is to devote yourself so entirely to a body of work. The collection marked a significant point in my personal and creative progression and feels integral to the foundations of my career.
Collaboration was central to my process. I worked with a talented jeweller from the CSM BA Jewellery course, Jessica Pani, incorporated reclaimed fabrics sourced from an antique shop in Dorset, Old Albion and collaborated with artist Jane Bustin to repurpose a reclaimed sail - a material she had also used within her own practice. These partnerships enriched the narrative and materiality of the collection.
What important piece of advice would you give to students thinking of studying this course?
Perspective is essential. It is important to immerse yourself fully in your projects, but equally important to step back, socialise, and build relationships - particularly with students on other courses. They will often be your greatest source of inspiration and support throughout your degree.
Attend events, embrace the creativity around you, and make the most of being surrounded by such a diverse and talented community. CSM can offer lots of opportunity - say yes where you can and trust your instincts when it comes to your work.
What was the highlight of your Central Saint Martins experience?
One defining moment was finishing the final look for my collection. Completing it felt like a culmination of months of dedication and vulnerability. It was an intense, unpredictable, and deeply rewarding year, and I look back on that period with immense pride and gratitude.
What is the most important thing you learnt on the course?
I learnt that the people you surround yourself with can be your greatest asset. Being part of a motivated, talented cohort pushes you to raise your own standards. Healthy competition, open dialogue, and peer support are invaluable.
I also learnt the importance of building your network early - particularly during your placement year. Cultivating mentors and professional relationships while still studying makes the transition into the industry far smoother after graduation.