A FASHION executive who has worked with the biggest global brands says she “owes everything” to college lecturers in Glasgow.

Stephanie McCartney said she only got into college by the skin of her teeth and failed her first year, before taking the second chance she was given then never looking back.

The 32 year-old, from Baillieston, now based in London missed out on grades she needed for a university place and just managed to get into Glasgow Kelvin College in 2009.

READ NEXT:Hundreds take part in Govanhill International Carnival Parade

(Image: Storyshop)

She said after failing her first year, she was given a second chance when she was accepted onto an  HNC in fashion business, which then got her into the final year of a Fashion Management course at Robert Gordon University, in Aberdeen.

Her efforts then led to a coveted internship at e-commerce giant Net A Porter in London.

Stephanie said: “I was prioritising friends, shopping, and silly things rather than my studies. I was still quite immature. It became even more difficult when my dad became seriously ill.

“There was a lot of time when I didn't attend because I was trying to be there for him.

“Having to leave Glasgow Kelvin College after just one year was the biggest wakeup call I've ever had.

“It was the first time someone said, ‘You can't continue, you didn't do enough and it's all over’.

“It was so devastating. The absolute shame and embarrassment of having to tell your parents is something I'll never want to relive. I owe everything to them for giving me a second chance.” 

READ NEXT:Plans unveiled to transform well-known Glasgow building

Since then her career has seen her travel the world and work alongside bosses at Gucci, Prada, Alexander McQueen and Bottega Veneta. 

(Image: Storyshop)

The Glasgow Kelvin College Graduate is currently working as Alexander McQueen’s senior worldwide E-Concession and marketplace manager.

Stephanie is now backing National Opportunity Day, backed by Glasgow business tycoon Willie Haughey, who attended Springburn College now part of Kelvin College during a commercial engineering apprenticeship.

He said: “I am delighted to be supporting National Opportunity Day for a second year, and to see the return of a worthwhile and important campaign.

“Attending college set me up for life - the skills and confidence I gained there helped me find a direction for my career that worked for me.

“National Opportunity Day will once again shine a spotlight on the wealth of opportunities available to students through clearing, highlighting the possibilities on offer to people at all ages and stages through a practical and applicable college education.”

National Opportunity Day (NOD) celebrates the opportunities made available through a college education.

More information on National Opportunity Day can be found here via Glasgow Kelvin College.