Paris hilton gives docklands designer a taste of fame

By Rob Virtue on March 13, 2008 9:00 AM |

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Dressing Paris Hilton and working alongside Vivienne Westwood is not a bad way to start your fashion career.

Docklands designer Katie Rose-Whiting only graduated from the University of East London last year but is flying high.

Last week, the 22-year-old Greenwich resident received a £9,260 scholarship to support her
during a lucrative work placement at acclaimed designer Westwood’s studios in May.

Katie received the money from the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust following a tough interview process. “It will make my life so much easier and I feel humbled because they believe in me,” she said.

“Being given money to fulfil my dream is a fantastic feeling. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have been able to do work experience. I work part-time but it’s not enough.”

The money will be spent on living costs and travel. During that time, Katie will be focusing her talents on shoe designing, an area she has just begun working on, but has already made three pairs.

Katie last appeared in The Wharf after working with designer Julien MacDonald on Paris Hilton’s 2006 Brit Awards dress. She said the socialite was a pleasure to work with.

“It was interesting to see something I made shown in the press, something that people liked,” said Katie. “I now want to see more of my stuff being worn and sought after.

“Paris was really nice. She was nervous as it was her debut at an event like that but she handled it well and was very down to earth.”

Katie graduated with a first-class degree from UEL where she studied at the Docklands campus by Cyprus DLR station. She showed her final collection at Battersea Park Arena last summer. She has been invited to a luncheon at Buckingham Palace in June to receive her prize.

The cash will also help support Katie during the first year of a diploma at Cordwainers at the London College of Fashion, beginning later this year.

rob.virtue@wharf.co.uk