How did it feel to be asked to a part of such an influential event in the fashion industry?

I think that London is one of the most creative cities in the world and just the sheer fact that people have come from all over the world to see the talent displayed here - there’s nothing else quite like it in the world. These companies see something different, unique and special that they can bring to their company, to make their own business more profitable and more creative. For a lot of young kids, this is their chance to be fashion stars of the future.

What do you hope that the winner of the Christopher Bailey Gold Award will go on to achieve?

Christopher Bailey is an incredible designer, he’s proved that. He’s made Burberry such successful and creative company and I think the award stands up for somebody who, like him, is just a normal guy who one day dreams of being a designer. Christopher excelled more than anybody could have dreamed of and it’s a very difficult industry to make it into.

You’ve worked with some of the greatest labels. What would your advice be to anyone aspiring to go down the same path in design?

I think people must remember that tonight is just one night and that tomorrow is another day. So it’s not always about the winners, it’s about the people who are taking part and the graduating students who have worked hard on their projects. My advice to any young designer would be to never give up, always work hard. Many doors will close but a few will open and one of those doors must just lead you to your chosen career. It might take one year - it might take five years. But never forget who you are and try to be individual because being individual and different from everyone else will make you stand out in the competitive world of fashion.

You’re an icon to so many people. Who was your inspiration when you were progressing?

JM: I was very very lucky when I started my career, I was spotted by Karl Lagerfeld - I worked at Chanel, at Karl Lagerfeld, I worked with Alexander McQueen…probably the greatest designers in the world, at a very young age. I’ve always looked up to Karl Lagerfeld - the fact that he’s still going after many years. My aesthetic is obviously one of beauty and glamour, so my iconic people will always be…in terms of knitwear, Azzedine Alaia, in terms of fashion aesthetic, it would definitely be Gianni Versace. The fashion world is so diverse and different, there’s something for everybody in fashion, you just have to find what your niche is.

What happens to designers after Graduate Fashion Week?