TWO schoolgirls have had their dress designs made and displayed on the catwalk after reaching a fashion competition final.

Victoria Kuponiyi, 17, and Tabarek Hufthy, 14, of Southend High School for Girls were finalists in the Liberty Shopping Centre’s annual fashion design competition.

A judge said the Southend pair were “stars in the making” after seeing their designs on the catwalk at the shopping centre in Romford.

Victoria said: “I entered the competition after a teacher recommended it at my school’s fashion club and I thought it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get my work and passion noticed.

“I’ve been designing clothes for years from my own bedroom, so it was a fantastic feeling to finally get my creations on to a catwalk and out into the public and shopper’s eye.”

Tabarek said: “It was hard to choose which of my designs to put forward, but I decided on my “bridesmaid of the year” piece inspired by weddings.

“I wanted to appeal to those with an individual sense of style and, judging by the audience’s reception, I think that I definitely succeeded.”

Entrants were asked to submit designs for a garment for either a male or a female, catalogue their inspiration using web service Pinterest and write 500 words on why they should be crowned winner.

Judge Syreeta McQueen from online fashion magazine Fashion Capital, said: “The talent this year was fantastic and all 17 finalists should feel very proud of their hard work.

“Tabarek, and Victoria were our youngest entrants, and submitted creative pieces of work and both their hardwork shone through. They are both stars in the making.”

Centre manager Jonathan Poole said: “Victoria and Tabarek should be very proud of such fantastic work at such a young age. I’m sure they are set for big things.”