About this Event
DMU’s student fashion managers are proud to present Rooted in Opulence—an exclusive fashion symposium taking place on July 16th 2025 in Birmingham.
Drawing from the richness of De Montfort University’s distinctive theoretical fashion programme, the event finds its inspiration in the ongoing decolonisation movement shaping today’s fashion landscape—this year’s featured research theme.
Rooted in Opulence honours the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion by elevating the voices of a broad spectrum of creatives from Leicester and beyond—particularly those connected to De Montfort University—within a luxurious setting that invites reflection on what luxury truly means in our contemporary world.
As emerging fashion managers at the forefront of change, our student designers and small brand owners will present their collections, share personal narratives, and spark meaningful conversations around inclusivity within the fashion supply chain. Guests are encouraged to listen closely—key insights may just lead one lucky attendee to victory in our exclusive scavenger hunt, with an extraordinary prize awaiting the winner.
Guest speakers include:
Dr. Mark Charlton
Dr Mark Charlton is the Associate Director of Sustainable Development at De Montfort University. Specialising in policymaking within the Sustainable Development area, Dr Charlton’s areas of interest and expertise include Political Engagement, Community Engagement, Climate Change, Climate Justice, and Young People’s Politics.
Rumbie Makonise
Rumbie Makonise is a Sales and Marketing Specialist and the founder of the company, HERUNO HALO. She holds a Law LLB and an MA in Fashion Management with Marketing. Additionally, Rumbie was an EDI representative for the De Montfort School of Fashion and Textiles and the British Methodist Church charity in 2023/24.
Karen Aekpehae
Karen is a PhD student and lecturer on the MA Fashion Management with Marketing programme, bringing expertise in sustainable fashion design and supply chain strategies. Karen remains the creative director of Patterns by Karachi Limited.
Featured designers include:
Mine Yeter - Fashion Designer / Fashion Management with Marketing student
Blessing Ukpe - Co-Founder & Creative Director at Adjoavi Style and Sustainable Fashion Teacher at De Montfort University
Huimin/July You - Wink -milk
Adenike Akintunde - NIKJADEFASHION
Mariam Oyenuga - Àdufé Lagos
Claudia Adetoro - Kalon
Rumbie Makonise - HERUNO HALO
Hayley-Jane Wildsmith CIPD - LEGENDRY LIVING Creator
Oluwafunmilayo Ogundimu - Intimate Apparel Designer
We look forward to seeing you there.
Agenda
Dr Mark Charlton
Rumbie Makonise
Karen Aikpehae
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Birmingham, United Kingdom
GBP 0.00 to GBP 3.96
