MARKS & Spencer’s Dress The Nation is officially returning to screens for a second series this autumn.
Co-hosted by Vernon Kay and AJ Odudu , the show will follow nine contestants ranging between the ages of 22 to 59 over five 60-minute episodes as they compete for an exclusive mentorship with M&S , and the chance for their winning design to be sold in their stores.
Each week on the programme, a panel of judges consisting of M&S experts, fashion designers, and celebrity guests will choose which contestants move forward to the next round, bringing them closer to the coveted prize.
Past celeb guests have included Cat Deeley and Mel B , who wore a stunning green midi dress from M&S while she joined Vernon and AJ on the new ITV fashion series .
It’s a nationwide search, looking for the best new faces in fashion, including both womenswear and menswear.
“Dress The Nation isn’t just about fashion – it’s about changing someone’s life forever whilst discovering more of their own confidence, creativity and talent,” says Vernon.
“The level of skill this year is unreal which means the competition is ridiculously tough but seeing people shine doing what they love makes for proper feel-good telly.”
In its first run on ITV1 and ITVX , the fashion-forward show was enjoyed by over eight million viewers.
Now back by popular demand after signing a new deal with ITV , the hosts can’t wait to showcase new talent and to become a part of evolving fashion within retail.
“I’m chuffed to bits to be hosting for a second year running and proud to front something that champions fresh opportunities in fashion, a world that’s notoriously tough to break into,” says AJ.
“Last year’s winner was outrageously talented; proof that this show uncovers the kind of raw, brilliant creativity you don’t see every day.”
Former dancer David Olaniyi, 39, from Barnet, won Dress The Nation’s first ever series.
He was working on the Michael Jackson Thriller show and Take That ’s tour when he was first introduced to costume design and learned how to make alternations from the wardrobe team.
“Winning Dress The Nation last year changed my life,” says David. “I’ve always been passionate about designing clothing for the modern man, but being part of the Menswear Design Team at M&S today has been a massive eye opener into how the retail industry operates on a day-to-day basis.”
“From speaking with suppliers to working closely with the merchandising and buying teams, the experience has helped me nurture my craft and opened up a realm of possibilities for the future,” David continued.
“I can’t wait to see how the contestants get on this year.
