Where are they now? Fashion Designer Ashleigh Huntley

Ashleigh wearing her wedding dress which she designed

Ashleigh Huntley completed a Fashion Technology course at Ultimo TAFE Sydney Institute in December 2012. Originally Ashleigh wanted to be a costume designer but following her studies decided she preferred the fast-paced fashion world and the variety of skills used in the industry.

Ashleigh said: “I have always been creative and a practical learner and I found a great way to grow these skill sets through my studies at TAFE.  My parents have always been very supportive and inspirational, affirming that I can achieve anything I set my mind to and work hard at. My mum taught me to sew when I was 7 and it’s through my years in Rhythmic Gymnastics and Ballroom Dancing that I gained a love of costume making.”

Ashleigh was attracted to competing at WorldSkills as a fantastic training opportunity and learn from industry experts.

“It’s a very exciting opportunity that opens up your mind to the world-wide scale of your trade. For fashion, I had the opportunity to train with industry experts from bridal and fast fashion as well as hone my skills in specific areas with one-on-one tutoring from TAFE teachers. It took dedication and discipline to maintain the drive and continue to learn and grow during the national and international circuit, but there was always a lot of support from the team, my TAFE trainers and family and friends. It’s such a great feeling to represent your country on a national and world stage and to know that you have walked away giving it your best. The friendships you create during the experience will stay with you for life and I have developed some amazing relationships during my WorldSkills time.”

Ashleigh lists the key skills for succeeding in Fashion as determination, passion and drive. Ashleigh runs her own dressmaking business, Ash-Lynne Couture, based in South Sydney. She also designed the uniforms worn by Team Australia at the WorldSkills Competition in Abu Dhabi 2017.