A collection of garments displayed at a college fashion show has wowed leading retail experts.

The catwalk creations featuring outfits inspired by the Russian Revolution and the Ottoman Empire were displayed at Waltham Forest College in Forest Road on June 12 and 13.

Jenny Holloway, chief executive of of Fashion Enter, a garment factory in west London whose clients include Marks and Spencer and Asos, was among tho onlookers.

She said: "Waltham Forest College ... why have you been hiding your light under a bushel?

"I have been attending fashion shows for the best part of 30 years, but rarely have I been so amazed by what I saw here tonight.

"I saw excellent pattern work, an amazing amount of detail in the designs, a real variety in the dresses and fantastic creativity in putting a range together.

"There is no doubt that I will be spreading the word throughout the industry about the talent I have seen at this college."

Ms Holloway plans to open a fashion technology academy next year in partnership with the college.

This is part of a joint commitment to halt the decline in skills needed by the fashion industry in the UK.

Student Safia Matividi won the award for best collection with her range of black and white garments entitled "A Play on Monochrome".

The 18-year-old BTEC fashion and clothing student won a supply of fabric to develop her collections and a year's mentoring to prepare her for a career in the fashion business.

She said: "I want to learn how to sell the clothes I make and to build up my own brand. This award is a fantastic opportunity to help me develop my skills."

The end-of-year fashion show featured more than 25 collections.