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.

Fashion Symposium - Rooted In Opulence