Grayson's Robes Competition
Grayson is challenging UAL students across all Colleges, year levels and disciplines to design an unconventional alternative to the formal black robes traditionally worn. You can enter in teams of up to 4 as well as individually.
Shortlisted students will get the opportunity to personally meet with Grayson to pitch their ideas in detail and the winner(s) will also receive £1,500 to help bring their idea to life.
Have you got what it takes to create this year's winning robes?
Find out what Grayson wants to see in your designs.
Grayson says...
I’m looking for:
Design drawings that show how the garment will be constructed and what fabrics, materials and techniques would best achieve the result – swatches and samples are a must.
The robe needs to:
Retain some of the formal elements of traditional chancellor robes – but also take into account my personal style. I take centre stage so go for an eye-catching design. Strong colours and reflective surfaces are encouraged. I’d also love a glamorous crown or headpiece.
Comfort is key:
The graduation ceremonies always happen at the HOTTEST TIME of the year and involve a lot of clapping, standing up and sitting down, so LIGHTER FABRICS are encouraged.
I am a man yet I like to dress like a woman:
Attention should be given to playing down the male bits (shoulders, long tubular body!) and playing up my assets (good legs!)
Incorporate the theme:
I’d also like you to include sustainability in your design.
See our 2022 winner go from sketch to stage!
Watch the full playlist about the making of Grayson's previous graduation robes.
How to apply
- Register your interest: Let us know you’re entering the competition by registering via our online form so that we can keep you updated with important competition details.
- Submit your entry on Friday 24 February: Provide a front and back design for the robes and crown (no bigger than A3) and supply some swatches.
Ahead of submitting your entry, please complete the submission form and bring this with you on the day. If entering as a team (maximum of 4), please include the full names and UAL email addresses of all members of your team. Please note that only one member of your team needs to submit your entry in person.
Terms and conditions
View our terms and conditions for this year's competition.
Collection times and locations - Friday 24 February 2023
College collection locations | Collection times |
Camberwell - Reception/Canteen at Peckham Road | 12-3pm |
Chelsea - Reception/Canteen | 3-5pm |
CSM - King's Cross Canteen | 1-3pm |
LCC - Canteen - entrance near library / area | 11-1pm |
LCF Curtain Road - Canteen ground floor | 12-2pm |
LCF John Prince's Street - Canteen first floor | 1 - 3pm |
LCF Lime Grove - Main reception ground floor | 1 - 3pm |
Wimbledon - Reception, entrance | 2 - 4pm |
Meet the previous winners
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Grayson Perry wearing his 2022 graduation robe.
2022: Yuze Li
Frills, thrills and sewing skills! The Grayson’s Robes 2022 competition reached its exciting conclusion this week, Yuze Li was chosen as the final winner.
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Grayson's Robes full image 2019
2019: Rachele Terrinoni
Regal ruffles and patterned tights: a 'Renaissance princeling' look
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2018: Yuxuan Yang
Over 220,000 hand-stitched pearl beads adorned this couture gown
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2017: Keith Tovey
The first ever winner created a rainbow of silk organza
Previous stories
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UAL Chancellor Grayson Perry wearing his graduation robe on stage | Photography: David Poultney
Grayson's robes 2022: from sketchbook to stage
Gasps, cheers and whoops erupt from the audience as UAL’s Chancellor, Grayson Perry, serenely walks down the aisle of Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall; for the first of many graduation ceremonies this summer.
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Grayson's Robes competition 2022
Grayson's Robes is back!
Following on from the major success over the past few years, we’re pleased to announce the relaunch of our Grayson’s Robes competition.
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Grayson's Robes head shot 2019
Grayson Perry’s 2019 #UALGrads robes unveiled
UAL Chancellor Grayson Perry debuted his new 2019 Chancellor robes designed by London College of Fashion student Rachele Terrinoni.
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Grayson Perry wears robes designed by MA Costume Design for Performance student Rachele Terrinoni
MA Costume Design for Performance student designs Grayson Perry’s graduation robe
MA Costume Design for Performance student Rachele Terrinoni was selected this year to design UAL Chancellor Grayson Perry’s 2019 Graduation robe - even making the front page of the Evening Standard!