Michelle holds a Master’s degree in Fashion from Central Saint Martins, a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education, and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (UK). With over a decade of academic experience since 2013, combined with seven years as a designer in the fashion industry, she is a leading figure in fashion education.
Michelle specialises in guiding students through research, concept development, illustration, and collection building, while promoting fashion as a vehicle for positive social change, particularly in areas such as sustainability, diversity, and authentic representation. Previously, Michelle served as the Course Leader for the BA (Hons) Fashion programmes at Birmingham City University, UK, and as Academic Lead for Access, Participation, and Success at the School of Jewellery, Fashion, and Textiles.
Michelle holds a Master’s degree in Fashion from Central Saint Martins, a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education, and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (UK). With over a decade of academic experience since 2013, combined with seven years as a designer in the fashion industry, she is a leading figure in fashion education.
Michelle specialises in guiding students through research, concept development, illustration, and collection building, while promoting fashion as a vehicle for positive social change, particularly in areas such as sustainability, diversity, and authentic representation. Previously, Michelle served as the Course Leader for the BA (Hons) Fashion programmes at Birmingham City University, UK, and as Academic Lead for Access, Participation, and Success at the School of Jewellery, Fashion, and Textiles.
Her teaching expertise spans creative design development, trend research, silhouette and garment construction, fashion illustration, digital design, and sustainable practices. She is deeply committed to integrating sustainability and circular fashion principles into her pedagogy, ensuring students are equipped to address environmental challenges through innovative design solutions.
In addition to academic contributions, Michelle has successfully managed high-profile fashion events and live industry briefs. Under her mentorship, many students have won prestigious national and international awards, gaining significant recognition for their innovative designs.
Michelle is also actively engaged in academic research, focusing on inclusive design methodologies, sustainability, and the relationship between fashion and identity. Her scholarly work includes peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations on creative pedagogy, social justice, and the economic and cultural impacts of art and design education. Her research aims to empower students to explore their authentic selves through design while advancing pedagogical approaches that respond to diverse cultural and social contexts.
