Justin Timberlake dons Newcastle graduate designer’s wares

A 22 year-old entrepreneur from Newcastle has gained Justin Timberlake’s seal of approval as the star wore one of his buttonholes to the Cannes Film Festival.

Business Leadership and Corporate Management graduate Kieron Day sent one of his buttonhole designs to the Timberlake and was amazed to get a response from the star’s management team saying he would wear it.

Kieron, received start-up support and guidance from Northumbria University to launch his ‘Wardrobe Wingman’ business, produces handmade wollen buttonhole lapel flowers.

He has also seen his wares endorsed by NBA player Victor Oladipo of Orlando Magic, and has created custom models for soft drinks firm Fentimans.

Kieron’s degree has a unique structure in that students spend the first year in full-time study and the following two undertaking placements within business.

He was the first student who elected to start his own business, rather than take the placement, and received additional support through Northumbria University’s Student and Graduate Enterprise service.

The service provides young student entrepreneurs with invaluable support and assistance to find their feet in the world of business. Over 250 student and graduate businesses have been supported by the service over the last 10 years through access to a wealth of academic knowledge and an excellent support and mentoring network of industry professionals.

Kieron said: “Wardrobe Wingman wouldn’t exist without the support and ongoing guidance I have received from Northumbria University throughout every step of the start-up process. Students who are ambitious about their ideas can be given a head start into the world of business with this platform.”

Graham Baty, enterprise manager at Northumbria University, added: “Our staff body places significant focus on the growth and development of student ideas. Kieron was extremely passionate about his concept from the outset. He pitched his idea of Wardrobe Wingman and impressed us with his business plan, unique idea and enthusiasm.”

Kieron now hopes many more celebrities will follow in Justin Timberlake’s footsteps and don his design.

He said: “I arranged to send out samples to a number of key celebrities, without expectations of hearing anything back. I couldn’t believe it when I received a call from Justin’s management team to say they loved the design. He is my style icon, and was pictured at Cannes Film Festival in one of my colour buds.

“Last year, I created a Children In Need-inspired design based on the red and white polka dot handkerchief, as well as a special Cancer Research buttonhole. The response was great, and meant I was able to raise money for charity whilst also raising the profile of my business.”

The Wardrobe Wingman range is available to purchase now. Find a list of retail stockists at www.wardrobewingman.com.

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