Glassons will partner with third year design students at Otago Polytechnic, challenging them to interpret its new brand strategy, Made of Here, and have their creations sold instore.

The Glassons Made of Here’ strategy was introduced last year and is a reference to its New Zealand roots which go back to is establishment in 1926.

The project uses fashion, communication, interiors, and product Design students from Otago Polytechnic’s School of Design, who will interpret Made of Here into their submissions. The winning submission may be commercially produced and sold through key Glassons stores in Australasia.

“This gives students the possibility to launch their career in a manner most could only dream of,” said  Anna Murray, Glassons marketing director.

“Along the way, they will get some valuable commercial insights into the fast moving world of fashion retail in Australasia.”

Dr Margo Barton, academic leader of Fashion at Otago Polytechnic’s School of Design, said the initiative provides a wealth of opportunities, not just for students but also design staff.

“To be able to understand the designing, production, retailing, and marketing process from the point of view of this big Australasian retailer is invaluable,” Barton said.

“We’ll also be able to gain a better understanding of the off-shore production process. This initiative will allow both staff and students to think more broadly about what a fashion professional is, or could be.”