Emerging Fashion Designers Take the Stage at the METU Graduate Show 2025

On the evening of September 1, the majestic halls of the Hungarian National Museum hosted the Budapest Metropolitan University (METU) Graduate Show 2025, held this year for the first time as an official program of Budapest Central European Fashion Week (BCEFW).

The event showcased the diploma collections of graduating students from METU’s BA in Textile Design and MA in Fashion and Textile Design programs, specializing in fashion. Nearly thirty young designers presented creations that went beyond garments – telling personal stories, exploring identity, and delivering strong social messages.

In his opening address, Gábor Megyeri, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Creative Industries, emphasized:

“For 15 years, our university has been training fashion designers, with faculty members who are themselves active creators and respected figures in the field. This year marks the first time our Graduate Show appears as part of BCEFW’s official program – a milestone both for our students and the institution.”

The themes of the collections spanned a wide spectrum: from reimagining Hungary’s punk subculture to fusions of baroque and streetwear, and even reflections on the creative future shared by humans and artificial intelligence. The works demonstrated both a respect for tradition and a spirit of innovation and critical thinking.

Adding to the show’s uniqueness, it featured collaborations across artistic disciplines: music was provided by electronic music students from the University of Pécs, makeup was handled by students of KREA Contemporary Art School, and photographic documentation was captured by METU’s own photography students.

The METU Graduate Show 2025 served not only as a launch platform for young designers but also as a professional meeting point. With their creative energy, experimental spirit, and internationally competitive expertise, METU graduates reaffirmed the university’s key role as a leading incubator for the next generation of Hungarian fashion talent.