LCF student gallops ahead

by Marianna Keen

A talented graduate from the London College of Fashion, Mary Wing To, whose original, equine-inspired leather designs have won her recognition, has now been awarded ‘Creative Craftsperson of the Year’.

Wing To, 26, who lives in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, won the prestigious Lion award at a ceremony held in central London this month. Dubbed the ‘education Oscars’, the awards celebrate the country’s top students who go on to achieve successful careers.

Wing To was praised for her Level 3 certificate course in saddlery, where she captures the essence of traditional livery in her merging of the world of horse tack with high fashion.

In a recent interview she said: “I feel honoured to have won such a prestigious award. My qualification has given me the crucial skills and confidence needed to push the boundaries of design, and has made a big difference in the way the industry recognises me and my work.”

Wing To, who is now working part-time at J Simpson leather and jewellery makers and restorers, has also been awarded a Medal for Excellence for Outstanding Performance by the City & Guilds.

Wing To’s LCF lecturer Line Hansen said in a recent interview: “During her time with us she proved unique - at the same time as learning saddlery she also designed garments and competed with them.”