From Heathrow check-in desk to online fame, a design student and mum is already making her mark on the fashion world after one of her very first creations took centre stage in Emeli Sandé’s latest music video.  

Despite a lifelong passion for design, Chevon Blanc had never made a piece of clothing until she was in her 30s when she decided to enroll onto the BA (Hons) Fashion and Textiles course at the University of West London (UWL).

Two years later, working on a course project by guest lecturer and designer, Samson Soboye she created a collection of pieces so eye-catching they were chosen to feature in his London boutique where they caught the eye of British music star Emeli Sandé.

In what was an even bigger shock than selling to one of her icons, Chevon then spotted her pieces -  created as a fusion of gaming and Egyptian themes – reaching millions of fans in social media posts by the singer, and even in her new music video, Family.

Chevon – who worked as a check-in agent at Heathrow before deciding to study fashion, said:

I was already floored that Emeli Sandé owned something I had made at a stage when fashion career has barely started.

Then I saw the jacket flash up on a promo video for her new single, and she started posting pictures of her wearing my jumper to promote an interview she did with Jools Holland.

It was bombshell after bombshell, this whole experience has been so amazing. I feel completely overwhelmed with is, but so incredibly grateful I was given these opportunities.

I have always loved fashion and designed a few bits for my daughter which I had made, but making garments only really started three or four years ago when I began studying at UWL.

The fashion course has been amazing. At 34–years-old with two children this journey has not always been easy but I am so happy I did it. I’ve been able to achieve something so special so early on.

The fashion and textiles staff at UWL are amazing, and for anyone thinking about joining this course, at UWL don’t think just go for it.