College students star in iconic i-D magazine ‘Class of 2026’ feature

Creative students from The Manchester College are the stars of the latest feature in i-D, a biannual magazine dedicated to fashion, music, art, film and youth culture. 

The ‘Class of 2026’ sees 15 of our students don high-end fashion pieces, created by debut designers for the likes of Dior, Celine and Gucci. As well as sharing details about themselves for the feature, the students got to ask the designers questions about their inspiration, creativity and careers. 

The professional shoot, including hair, make-up and wardrobe, utilised various locations around City Campus Manchester during a working College day, such as the library, dance studios and Visual Art workshops. Ewen Spencer, renowned photographer of British subculture, was commissioned to take the photographs. Our T Level Media, Broadcast and Production students also shot content on the day for i-D social channels. 

Fashion and Textiles student Mia Thomas, who modelled a Loewe dress, said:

I’ve been dressing up in amazing brands for this amazing shoot and working with so many creative people.

"I’ve been pampered all day. I love it – I feel like a celebrity!"

To be chosen for this incredible opportunity, the students had just 24 hours to create and submit a video all about themselves and why they should be selected. And their efforts proved well worth it! 

Talking about her Balenciaga outfit, Quincy Elizabeth, who also studies Fashion and Textiles, said: “I love it, it links in so well with my ‘organic and mechanic’ project. We’ve been given this theme to explore - 50% organic and 50% mechanic - and this embodies the whole thing. The flowers and the way the dress flows are very organic. The glove structure is very mechanic. I wish I could stay in this dress forever!” 

But more than just a fun experience, the day provided students with invaluable insight into an industry that may previously have seemed out of reach. 

“I was actually really happy to do this because never in my life did I think I'd be modelling, especially for i-D,” said Matthew Powell, a Musical Theatre student who modelled a colourful Jean-Paul Galtier outfit. 

I've gained a bit more confidence. I feel very happy that I got selected for this opportunity and I feel like more positive things could come out of it.

Maria Foran, Assistant Principal for Creative Industries, added: “It is an honour to collaborate with a magazine of such cultural significance nationally and internationally. The creative spaces at City Campus Manchester provided a world class location for the shoot and our students were outstanding on a remarkable day that will live with them forever.” 

The i-D Class of 2026 feature is available online now and in print from Tuesday 11 March – click here to order your copy. 

If you'd like to have opportunities like this by studying creative courses at The Manchester College, you can search for the right course here and apply today.