Designers gear up for Fashion Week - graduate jobs

Fashion graduates may be looking to pick up some tips and draw on inspiration from some of the world's leading designers as the capital gears up for London Fashion Week.

The event, opening on Friday, will showcase 65 shows over six days, with designer Paul Costelloe opening the event at Somerset House with his classic tailoring collection.

In a business worth big bucks - the London economy rakes in around £30 million from the event and some £100 million-worth of orders are placed - graduates are likely to want to get in on the action.

And come Saturday all eyes will probably be on the autumn/winter 2011 line from Issa London, who designed royal bride-to-be Kate Middleton's £385 "draped" dress for her engagement announcement to Prince William.

From across the shores, American designer Tom Ford will show off his womenswear collection for the first time in London. However, rather than present a full catwalk show, he has chosen to hold a series of private appointments with fashion editors - perhaps something for graduates to aspire to.

But fashionistas need not worry, there are still some 200 UK and international designers displaying their ready-to-wear lines, which is good news for the UK economy too, as designer fashion makes a net contribution of £450 million per year.

A large number of shows will take place at main venue Somerset House, with some designers choosing to show their collections at other locations, including the Royal Opera House and a freemasons' hall. Other high-profile shows include Burberry, Mulberry, Julien Macdonald and Vivienne Westwood.