A FASHION designer has honoured her younger brother in her newest collection of menswear, known as Lacerated Denim.

Ahmed, the little brother of Sundas Javed, 23, from Great Lever, a student at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), passed away eight years ago, aged seven, from a rare genetic illness called metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD).

Bolton-based Sundas was very close to Ahmed and wanted to honour him while raising awareness of MLD.

The talented designer’s work has grabbed the attention of the Graduate Fashion Foundation Talent (GFF) website, where industry experts look for future generations of designers.

Sundas said: “I’ve always been quite a creative and practical person, which is why I wanted to get into fashion in the first place. I am over the moon to be recognised in this way.”

“This is the first time I’ve designed menswear. I really worked hard and pushed myself out of my comfort zone so to know it’s good enough to be on the GFF website is a real confidence boost.

“When I first came to UCLan I compared myself to other students and felt I wasn’t good enough.

“Learning how to cut patterns, use CAD design and research trends were all completely new to me but I’ve worked hard to follow my dream and now I’m not afraid to believe in myself.”

The collection uses materials which deteriorate and distress over time like denim, linen and wool, representing the loss of abilities suffered by Ahmed.

Sundas’s father, Javed Iqbal, was as a tailor in his native Pakistan before moving to Bolton.

She added: “My dad is a good sounding board for my designs and is a perfectionist, so he encourages me to do my best. My little brother was the heart and soul of the family and he’s always in our thoughts.”

Stressing the need to stay positive, Sundas added: “Life can be hard but you must never give up because there’s always hope and brighter side to life and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had.”