We sat down with Robert to talk about his vision for the programme, the importance of employability, and how Westminster balances heritage with innovation, all while preparing students to tackle the biggest challenges facing fashion today.
A Career Built on Experimentation
Robert’s journey in fashion began after graduating from Kingston University in 1981. He worked as a designer before transitioning into styling, journalism, and advertising. His work with i-D Magazine in its early days placed him at the heart of the creative revolution, collaborating with visionaries who were redefining what fashion could be.
“Back then, it wasn’t common to juggle multiple roles in the industry,” Robert reflects. “But it gave me a unique insight into retail, the behind-the-scenes work, advertising, styling, and even journalism. Being able to write about fashion as well as create it was invaluable. It taught me that fashion isn’t just about clothes; it’s about communication, culture, and commerce.”
This multidisciplinary experience has become a cornerstone of his teaching philosophy. At Westminster, he ensures students understand that fashion is more than just design; it’s about collaboration, critical thinking, and adaptability.
Employability First: Preparing Students for the Real World
Robert’s vision for the BA Fashion Design programme is simple: employability. After years of hard work and financial investment, students deserve more than just a degree; they deserve a job.
“Our focus is on working with industry,” he says. “We embed live projects, collaborations, and real-world briefs into the curriculum because we want students to graduate with tangible experience and a network that opens doors. For example, our final-year students recently worked on a live project with Inditex Group, resulting in a job offer for one student before she even graduated. That’s the kind of impact we’re aiming for.”
But employability isn’t just about securing a job; it’s about making a difference. Westminster’s programme also emphasises inclusion, diversity, and sustainability, ensuring students are ready to contribute to an industry that’s evolving rapidly.
Heritage Meets Innovation: The Westminster Difference
Westminster has a long history of innovation, from hosting the world’s first photography studio in the 1840s to pioneering new approaches in fashion education today. Robert is proud of this heritage but equally committed to pushing boundaries.
“We’re innovators, but we also value craftsmanship and tradition,” he explains. “Our curriculum balances technical skills with forward-thinking, whether that’s digital fashion, sustainable practices, or exploring new materials. One foot in the past, one foot firmly in the future. That’s our ethos.”
This approach ensures students graduate with both the artistic freedom and commercial awareness needed to succeed in a competitive industry.
Live Projects That Lead to Real Opportunities
Robert points to recent collaborations as proof of the programme’s impact. The Inditex Group project, for instance, gave students the chance to work on a live brief, resulting in job offers and industry connections that would be hard to replicate elsewhere.
“These projects aren’t just for show,” he says. “They give students the chance to defend their ideas, receive feedback from professionals, and build a portfolio that reflects real-world experience. When a student graduates, they’re not just leaving with a degree, they’re leaving with a network, a reputation, and a head start.”
The Skills Students Need to Succeed
What does it take to make it in fashion design today? According to Robert, it’s a mix of personality, research skills, and craft awareness.
“Personality is key,” he says. “Fashion is subjective, and employers want to see originality and passion. Research skills are equally important; students need to understand trends, cultures, and consumer behaviour. And while we’re not training pattern cutters or machinists, the more they know about the craft, the better they can collaborate and innovate.”
At Westminster, students are encouraged to explore freely. whether that’s menswear, womenswear, sportswear, or couture. There’s no single “house style”; instead, the programme nurtures individuality and helps students find their place in the industry.
Tackling Fashion’s Biggest Challenges
The fashion industry faces big issues, such as fast fashion, overconsumption, waste, and pollution. Robert acknowledges these challenges but sees them as opportunities for students to drive change.
“Some students shy away from big companies, thinking they can’t make a difference,” he says. “But we remind them: the best place to create change is from the inside. Go in, learn the ropes, and then use your voice to push for better practices. Be the tastemakers and change-makers of the future.”
Advice for Aspiring Designers
For students considering Westminster, Robert’s advice is clear: build a strong portfolio, but don’t stress about perfection.
“Don’t worry if your portfolio isn’t fully fledged,” he says. “We’re here to teach you. What matters is subject knowledge, a strong opinion, and a love for research. Know your taste, trust your instincts, and be ready to explore. That’s what we look for.”
The Future of Fashion Education
Looking ahead, Robert is excited about the potential for Westminster’s programme to lead the way in innovation. He’s particularly passionate about sustainability, digital fashion, and the intersection of technology and design.
“The future of fashion isn’t just about physical garments,” he says. “It’s about digital experiences, virtual prototyping, and sustainable practices. Our programme is evolving to reflect that.”
For Robert, the most rewarding part of his role is seeing students grow, challenge themselves, and ultimately succeed. Whether it’s securing a job at a top brand, launching their own label, or pursuing further studies, he takes pride in knowing that Westminster has equipped them with the skills and confidence to thrive.
Final Thoughts
Robert Leach’s career is a testament to the power of creativity, adaptability, and passion. As Course Leader at the University of Westminster, he’s ensuring that the next generation of fashion designers is equipped to innovate, challenge norms, and shape the future of the industry.
For aspiring designers, his message is clear: embrace the journey, stay true to your vision, and never stop learning.
