UFV fashion student featured in Elle Canada

A fashion design student from the University of the Fraser Valley has fulfilled a dream by making it onto the pages of a prestigious magazine.

Sabrina Breitenmoser is recognized in this month’s Elle Canada as an “up-and-comer” in the fashion industry. On page 58, she’s mentioned for her creative use of fabrics in last year’s TÉLIO contest, a competition showcasing Canada’s breakthrough designers.

A picture of her winning outfit, which was inspired by the igloo and features padded quilted treatments in grey, is also printed in the magazine.

“It’s kind of surreal,” says the 26-year-old Agassiz resident. “It’s a dream to be in a fashion magazine, and here I am — my name and a picture of my dress are in the magazine.”

Recently, Breitenmoser was accepted as an intern for Vancouver designer Jason Matlo, who was one of the judges at the TÉLIO event.

“It has been great to work alongside him. I get a real insight into the world of up-and-coming designers,” says Breitenmoser.

Procuring an internship was part of the Fashion Design program’s curriculum at UFV. Landing a position with Matlo is something Breitenmoser credits to the encouragement of the faculty.

“The instructors have all been really enthusiastic,” says Breitenmoser. “They’re always really excited about any opportunities for us, and are always there to help. And while it was a lot of work and a lot of stress, the program is definitely well worth it in the end.”

Before undertaking the UFV program, Breitenmoser lived in Switzerland for a year, interning at Akris, a high-end women’s wear design house noted for their fabrics and modern styling.

During her studies at UFV, the faculty of the Fashion Design department quickly recognized Breitenmoser’s many talents, which includes working with fine fabrics.

“Sabrina’s technical skill and meticulous attention to detail and quality has always been her strength,” says fashion design instructor, Deanna Devitt. “While in our program, Sabrina demonstrated a strong sense of style. She always had a good eye for colour and fabrics. She has a strong work ethic and works well under pressure due to her good time-management skills.”

While the department was extremely excited to hear of Breitenmoser’s recent achievement, it didn’t come as a surprise considering her talent as a designer, says Devitt.

“She is an extremely dedicated and motivated individual who has the drive to succeed in the business.

“To have one of our students presented in a prominent publication such as Elle Canada speaks to the talent of our students as well as the quality of education provided by UFV’s Fashion Design department.”