By Kyra Gillespie
Ambitious design student Leyton Abduli has proved that hard work really does pay off after landing a spot in an exhibition at the Melbourne Museum.
The former Berwick College student was “in awe” of the fact that his VCE Product Design and Technology final was accepted into Top Designs 2018; an exhibition known for its competitiveness and prestige.
“When I first got told I had been selected for Top Designs I couldn’t believe it,” Leyton said.
“All year I aimed high, hoping for my persistence and hard work to pay off.
“To be showcased at such a prestigious event is absolutely amazing.”
Leyton is one of just 12 entrants to be selected from a pool of around 1600.
His standout, original product is a convertible jacket to bag which he says was praised for its originality.
“I took a look at our culture and what is existing in our day and age to create a product different to what is already out there,” he said.
“Gaining in-depth knowledge into our culture and environment, I knew that a product needed to be created that would help the consumer in numerous ways.
“This led me to take a deep plunge creativity-wise to create such an original and futuristic piece.”
The garment has around 12 pockets built into it which function in both bag and jacket form, with buckles on the exterior that at once serve its unique design as well as to create an original look.
The intricate creation took Leyton a whole year to plan and a whopping 92 hours to construct.
“The idea kind of came out of the blue,” he said.
“I’ve been creative ever since I was young; I used to draw all the time and now my love for fashion has evolved my sketches to be a lot more focused around that.
“I find myself constantly sketching fashion visuals.”
Although it was difficult to find the perfect balance between fashion and practicality, the young designer says it all paid off in the end.
His advice to other upcoming designers is to stick it out and embrace originality.
“Always continue to work hard and follow your ideas even if it may seem ‘too different’.
“When you think about it, those ideas that do seem different are unique and are destined for success if you work hard enough.”
Leyton is currently undertaking his first year at RMIT studying Business and Fashion, and hopes to one day forge a career in runway styling.
