Design meets Destination: Ulster University Graduate Fashion Show returns for 2026 at Titanic Belfast

Ulster University’s Belfast School of Art is excited to unveil its much-anticipated 2026 Graduate Fashion Show, continuing its legacy of innovation and craftsmanship in fashion design. 

Taking place on Thursday 28 May 2026, this year’s Belfast School of Art fashion show will be transformed by its new setting at Titanic Belfast, making full use of the venue’s iconic and architecturally distinctive spaces to create a dynamic and immersive showcase. 

Designs will be presented across three visually striking areas within the building, including the dramatic Grand Staircase and two bespoke catwalks, allowing collections to be experienced from multiple perspectives. This innovative use of space will shape the show into a multi-dimensional event, highlighting the creativity and bold artistic expression of the emerging designers against one of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable backdrops. 

The graduating class from the BA (Hons) Textile Art, Design and Fashion programme includes a diverse group of 42 talented designers, with 30 final year students debuting their unique collections, ranging from avant-garde concepts to contemporary, wearable art.  

With a curriculum that fosters technical mastery across embroidery, garment construction, knit, print and weave, Belfast School of Art continues to shape the next generation of textile artists and fashion designers. Under the guidance of specialist lecturers and technicians, students have honed their craft, producing garments that reflect their dedication, skill and ingenuity.  

Dean Liggett, Lecturer in Fashion at Belfast School of Art, shares his excitement for this year’s show:  

"Fashion is an ever-evolving global industry and it is thrilling to see the home-grown creativity and talent emerging from Belfast School of Art. This show is a milestone moment for our graduates, whose innovative designs showcase originality, address key industry challenges and celebrate their individual creative identities."  

Judith Owens MBE, Chief Executive of Titanic Belfast, added:  

“We are delighted to welcome Ulster University’s Belfast School of Art Graduate Fashion Show to Titanic Belfast. As a landmark synonymous with ambition and innovation, there could be no more fitting stage for the next generation of creative talent to present their work. We look forward to seeing the building transformed as it showcases the energy, imagination and future of fashion in Northern Ireland.” 

Continuing a tradition of excellence, Style Academy partners once again to produce the show, bringing their expertise to a grand-scale event featuring top runway models from across Europe. The event has garnered support from other key sponsors, including CastleCourt, Samantha Weightman Make-Up and McConnell’s Irish Whiskey, reinforcing the strong connection between Belfast’s artistic and business communities.  

Leona Barr, Centre Manager of CastleCourt, commented:

“This year’s fashion show promises to be an unforgettable spectacle. With stunning collections from some of the most promising new designers, combined with a stellar production, it’s a must-see event for anyone passionate about fashion. We are incredibly proud to support our neighbours at Ulster University Belfast." 

McConnell’s Irish Whiskey are once again backing the event. Its CEO, John Kelly, said:   

“We are delighted to continue McConnells’ support of the Textile Art, Design and Fashion Graduate Fashion show, working with our community neighbours at Ulster University."  

Style Academy Managing Director, Tracey Rodgers expressed her delight at supporting the event, she said:   

“We are once again honoured to have been appointed to produce the Belfast School of Art Graduate Fashion Show, taking place in the incredible Titanic Belfast for the first time. This year’s production is on a mammoth scale – we can’t wait for the graduates work to be seen in such a spectacular setting.” 

Brian Dixon, Head of Belfast School of Art at Ulster University reflects on this special occasion, he said:  

“It is a privilege to present the 2026 Fashion Showcase in partnership with Titanic Belfast, an internationally recognised symbol of the city’s rich industrial heritage. Belfast’s legacy in shipbuilding and linen production once drove economic prosperity, and it is especially meaningful to see our students’ fashion and textile creativity and innovation on display in a venue so deeply connected to that history. 

This showcase not only celebrates the exceptional talent of our graduates but also reflects the growing strength and potential of the creative industries across Belfast and the wider island. 

We are sincerely grateful to our industry partners, whose continued collaboration and support, both financial and in-kind, make this event possible, particularly in challenging times. The Graduate Fashion Show is a testament to the power of partnership, including the contributions of the BA(Hons) Textile Art, Design and Fashion department, as well as the ongoing support of the public, whose engagement through ticket purchases sustains and enables this important platform for emerging designers.” 

Taking place at Titanic Belfast on Thursday 28th May 2026, the Graduate Fashion Show welcomes friends, family, industry professionals, fashion enthusiasts and supporters of the arts to witness the emergence of Northern Ireland’s next generation of fashion innovators – echoing the city’s legacy of innovation as a new wave of creative talent steps confidently onto the global stage.  

Tickets start from £15 and are on sale now here!