JANE HAVAKIN
Senior Lecturer – BA (Hons) Costume Interpretation with Design
Qualifications:
Distinction at Master’s level in Future Design
HEA Fellowship.
Jane is a Senior Lecturer at the Northern School of Art, specialising primarily in the BA (Hons) Costume Interpretation with Design programme, and contributing to both undergraduate and postgraduate education. With over 18 years of experience in higher education, she holds a Master’s degree in Future Design (with Distinction) and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (HEA).
Before transitioning into academia, Jane spent a decade as a self-employed costume designer, creating and supplying garments for film, television, and global fashion retailers. Her work included performance costumes for renowned artists such as the Spice Girls, and she collaborated with numerous television wardrobe departments. Her credits include costume design and production for presenters on Channel 4 programmes such as Changing Rooms and The Big Breakfast, as well as costume supply for ITV’s The Bill and Netflix productions.
Jane also founded and ran her own fashion label, which supplied high-end clothing to international retailers including Galeries Lafayette in Paris, Harrods, and several concessions in John Lewis and Topshop’s flagship Oxford Street store.
Research Interests & Projects / Professional Activity / Publications/ Awards / Exhibitions / Media Coverage:
Jane focuses her teaching practice on the transmission of traditional skills, with a particular emphasis on millinery, leather and embellishment, ensuring that students not only acquire technical proficiency but also gain a deep understanding of the cultural and historical significance of these crafts and making them relevant to the costume industry.
She is also a passionate advocate of object-based research, recognising its value in developing critical observation, contextual understanding, and hands-on analytical skills. In support of this pedagogical approach, she established The Northern School of Art Costume Archive – a significant resource that allows students to study historical garments and construction techniques first-hand. The archive serves as both a research and teaching tool, enabling experiential learning and inspiring original design through the careful examination of authentic costume artefacts.
Drawing on her extensive professional background, she is deeply invested in bridging the gap between education and industry. Her teaching is enriched by real-world insights, current industry standards, and professional networks, offering students a well-rounded and employability-focused learning experience. Through workshops, live briefs, and collaborative projects, she fosters direct engagement between learners and creative industry professionals.
She was awarded:
Best Avant-Garde Fashion Designer for Department of Trade and Industry.
Best Newcomer for Fashion trade show, Pure London
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