A FORMER graduate of South Essex College has landed her dream job, after setting up her own company selling vintage clothing.

Natalie Gibson, 27, was offered a place at the famous St Martin’s College, in London, but turned it down to study fashion in Southend.

After working for industry giants, including Top Shop and Miss Selfridge, Natalie and her friend, Hannah Mumford, also 27, have started their own business, called Inherited Grace Vintage.

Natalie says: “I come from Burnley, in Lancashire, but I made the move to Southend because I realised how strong the fashion course was here, and its ability to land jobs for its graduates.”

St Martin’s is recognised as one of the world’s leading fashion training centres. Explaining why she rejected, Natalie added: “I just thought Southend was better.

“I liked the atmosphere, I liked the modern facilities, and I also liked the practical things, such as the fact it has its own photography room.”

After joining the course, Natalie says that Southend went on to “exceed all the highest expectations on a daily basis”.

Natalie and Hannah met up on the course.

Natalie says: “We became good friends, and we also thought along similar lines and responded to the fashion course with the same amount of enthusiasm.”

After graduation, the pair worked for fashion houses making clothes for firms like Top Shop and Miss Selfridge, while always aiming to open their own business eventually.

Their new firm, Inherited Grace Vintage, markets vintage clothes acquired from sources, such as house clearances and boot sales.

Hannah, from Great Wakering, says: “We have a fresh approach in that we’re not stuck in any particular vintage era.

“You can mix and match from different periods.

“Second-hand clothing works well worn alongside current designer wear, and our vintage clothes can be worn for every normal routine of daily life and work.

“We’re there for young women who have a passion for current fashion, but also find inspiration from the past.”

Natalie and Hannah’s advice to anyone wanting to find a job in the industry is simple: “Do the Southend course.”

One other piece advice offered by Natalie and Hannah, to anyone wanting to work in the fashion industry, is a four letter word.

“Blog,” says Natalie. “I’ve blogged constantly about fashion trends and the general buzz of what’s happening, “It has got me on to a network. And it also get me invites to fashion events.”

For more about Natalie and Hannah’s business, visit www.inheritedgrace.co.uk