TAFE SA graduate Tasmin Martin’s decision to channel her creative energy into fashion has been rewarded with the emerging designer named the HomeStart Fashion Graduate of the Year.

Tasmin says the award reaffirms her decision to move from Broken Hill to Adelaide to study the Bachelor of Creative Arts (BCA) – Fashion Design, a dual award offered by TAFE SA and Flinders University.

“I knew I wanted to do something creative and I considered graphic design, but I deferred for a year and in that time I decided to try fashion,” she says.

“I really enjoyed the course so I’m glad I made the move from the country.

“I especially liked the practical skills classes at TAFE SA and the conceptual work, the designing and drawing and coming up with ideas.”

The award was presented at the HomeStart Fashion and Costume Graduate Parade, Iridescent, which showcased design collections by graduates of both the BCA - Fashion Design and BCA - Costume Design.

Other award winners included Negin Arjomand (HomeStart Academic Merit Award for Fashion), Indigo Kuchel (HomeStart Costume Design Graduate of the Year) and Kimberly Francis (HomeStart Academic Merit Award for Costume Design).

Tasmin says seeing her designs on the catwalk as part of the Iridescent parade was exciting and made all the effort “worth it”.

“Designing my own collection was my overall favourite part of the course because we had the freedom to design and make whatever we wanted,” she says.

Tasmin’s graduate collection, A Digital Dystopia, was inspired by technology and the impact it can have on people’s social skills, mental health and relationships.

“It’s not obvious when you look at the collection but technology and people’s addiction to phones was my inspiration,” she says.

The result is a bold and experimental collection that contrasts elements of futuristic and gothic style with feminine details.

Since graduating, Tasmin has turned her attention to bridal wear and has joined Adelaide bridal business, ARA Experience.

“Like most people who study fashion I’d like to have my own label one day, but that’s long term,” she says.

“For now, I want to gain some experience, build on my sewing skills and learn about the business side of fashion.”

HomeStart CEO Andrew Mills (left) and the Minister for Education, Training and Skills, Blair Boyer, are pictured with the HomeStart award winners (from left to right) Tasmin Martin, Negin Arjomand, Indigo Kuchel and Kimberly Francis.