Sophie Lever, a Fashion Design student about to go into her 2nd year at WSA, has spent her summer interning at fashion label By Walid. Recent press in Mr Porter about By Walid mentions WSA as part of the intern team.

Sophie Lever describes her experience; “I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to carry out a month’s internship at By Walid in London during the summer. This internship was extremely beneficial, and I learnt so much during my time there. Some of the tasks that I carried out included copying patterns that were then sent to the factory for manufacturing, and undertaking quality control on the garments. I also completed hours of hand sewing and finishing ready for shipping.”

“By Walid’s garments are all made from beautiful recycled antique fabrics that can be extremely delicate, and therefore much care and attention is needed to ensure that they were suitable to be sent off to clients. It really opened my eyes as to how much work is put into each one-of-a-kind piece, I would often spend two full days working on the finishing of just one coat! However, the amount of care and time that went into each garment really showed and I think that is the key to the brands success.”

“When I was given a months internship I was aware my roles could have been general office duties, which I would have been happy to do. However, I considered it to be a real privilege to be trusted to actually work on the garments, and to feel like part of the team. It was so nice working with a group of extremely talented people and learning tips and gaining advice that will help me during my studies in the future.”

All photographs by Sophie Lever 2015

http://www.mrporter.com/journal/meet-the-makers/by-walid/452