Gabby is from Austin, Texas, and is a student on BA Fashion Communication: Histories and Theories at Central Saint Martins (CSM).
Why did you choose to study your course and why CSM? It was my dream to study abroad, and I chose CSM because I was inspired by its renowned reputation and the vibrancy of its students and tutors. During my foundation year, I began exploring the fashion communication pathway, which led me to apply for BA Fashion Communication: Histories and Theories. The course felt like a natural fit due to my love of research and the storytelling aspects surrounding fashion. It inspires my creativity while helping me develop the ability to communicate my ideas and research in a critical, engaging, and fulfilling way.
What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on so far? What made it so interesting to work on? The most interesting project I’ve worked on is my final-year thesis, where I’m analysing the fashion of the 1990s sitcom, The Nanny, and how the show engages with Jewish stereotypes as a form of resistance. It’s the most substantial piece of writing I’ve produced on the course, and while it’s been challenging, it’s pushed me to apply the critical thinking, research, and writing skills I’ve developed at CSM. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how my research has evolved, and it’s exciting to engage deeply with a topic I’m genuinely passionate about.
Have you completed any work placements/internships whilst being on the course? During my placement year, I was a research intern at the Texas Fashion Collection – an archive with nearly 20,000 garments, from 1950s Cristóbal Balenciaga ballgowns to 1990s Todd Oldham pieces worn by iconic supermodels and Fran Drescher in The Nanny. In addition to conducting research, I helped install two public exhibitions, gave a lecture, and curated my own pop-up exhibition.
The skills I developed at the TFC – including teamwork, archival research, curation, and conservation – helped me secure an internship at JW Anderson in London, where I’ve been assisting part-time in their archive for the past eight months. This experience has allowed me to gain valuable industry insight and build strong professional connections.
What important piece of advice would you give to students thinking of studying this course? Follow your curiosity and dive into subjects that genuinely inspire you. Fashion Histories and Theories is an intellectually stimulating course, so it’s important to remain open to new ideas and perspectives. Make the most of London’s incredible resources – from archives to libraries to exhibitions. The more you immerse yourself, the more you’ll get out of the course.
What has been the highlight of your CSM experience so far?My placement year has been the highlight of my CSM experience. It was incredibly rewarding to see how the skills I’d developed on the course could be applied in a professional setting. Gaining industry experience gave me confidence in my abilities, and I was lucky to work with supportive teams and discover new opportunities along the way. Taking advantage of CSM’s internship connections has been invaluable to my growth, both personally and professionally.
What are your career aspirations? Where would you like to be in five years’ time?I’d love to continue working in the fashion industry, particularly in the field of archiving. I’m inspired by how historical garments continue to influence contemporary design, and I’m passionate about preserving fashion’s heritage. In five years, I hope to be contributing to this field by helping maintain and conserve garments so they can be studied, appreciated, and enjoyed by future generations.
What is the most important thing you’ve learnt on the course so far?The most important thing I’ve learnt is the value of critical thinking – and how to communicate my questions, arguments, and ideas clearly. When researching something I care about, this has been vital in helping me refine my voice and analyse the subject on a deeper, more meaningful level. This skill has also been essential for my professional development, allowing me to express my ideas with clarity and confidence.
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