Fashion-Enter Ltd (FEL) kicked off the New Year by welcoming a group of students from the University of Rhode Island to its ethical fashion factory on 7th January 2026, marking the first visit in its 2026 factory seminar and tour diary.
The visit was hosted by FEL Director Caroline Ash, who led the students through an in-depth seminar and guided tour designed to showcase the full garment life cycle – from initial design and sampling through to production, packing and aftercare. The session offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at how ethical manufacturing operates in practice within the UK fashion industry.
During the tour, students were introduced to a range of cutting-edge technologies that FEL uses to support transparency, efficiency, and sustainability. These included Galaxius, which enables supply chain transparency; Style3D, used for digital design and sampling to reduce waste; Maeknit, highlighting innovation in knitwear production; and the Unite Repair Centre, where garments are repaired, refurbished, and reimagined to extend their lifespan. One highlight for many students was seeing how two pairs of jeans could be transformed into one renewed garment, demonstrating circular fashion principles in action.
Caroline Ash also spoke candidly about the challenges currently facing the global fashion industry, from environmental impact and overproduction to labour concerns and shifting consumer expectations. She explained how FEL is adapting its business models to embed sustainability at every stage, while continuing to evolve alongside new technologies and changing market demands.
Reflecting on the visit, Caroline said: “What a lovely way to begin the New Year! I had the absolute pleasure of hosting the University of Rhode Island again. This group was so warm, friendly, and full of great questions—it truly made the seminar a joy for everyone involved. Thank you for the wonderful energy.”
The students’ feedback echoed this enthusiasm, with many describing the experience as both inspiring and eye-opening. Several commented on how much they learned about manufacturing processes, textile production, and the real-world impact of repair and refurbishment. One student shared how powerful it was to see sustainability in action, noting that understanding why and how change is needed made the issue feel far more tangible.
Technology proved to be a standout feature of the visit. Students were particularly impressed by the use of AI and digital tools in fashion, with Style3D singled out as a favourite. Seeing advanced software integrated seamlessly into ethical production challenged preconceptions about fashion manufacturing and demonstrated how innovation can support responsible practices.
Across the feedback, Caroline’s passion and knowledge were repeatedly praised, with students describing the session as informative, engaging, and inspiring. Comments ranged from “10 out of 10” ratings to descriptions of the factory as “breathtaking,” “super interesting,” and “absolutely amazing.” Many noted that the depth and breadth of FEL’s work, from swimwear to designerwear, helped them better understand the complexity and potential of the industry.
Student feedback included:
“I learnt so much about the process of manufacturing and also repairs, refurbishing – making one pair of jeans from two! The speaker was very passionate about the work that is accomplished here. Thank you!”
“10 out of 10. I learnt about the real impact of repairing items and the depth this company has, from swimwear to designerwear, it’s breathtaking. By far my favourite was seeing Style3D. This was awesome. Thank you so much.”
“I found out so much about the impact of sustainability and firsthand why and how we should change it. Amazing speaker, absolutely amazing. 10 out of 10 would definitely recommend. Passionate, knowledgeable and respectful.”
“I have learned more how textiles are produced as well their pro’s and cons. Thank you I learned so much.”
“Absolutely amazing tour and presentation, learned so much. Very cool to see AI working in the fashion industry.”
“This was very fun, informative and educational. Thank you for your time.”
“Wonderful lecture, amazing factory and super interesting.”
“This was amazing, I enjoyed every part.”
By the end of the tour, students left with a deeper appreciation of how garments are made, the pros and cons of different textile processes, and the critical role sustainability and innovation must play in fashion’s future. As FEL continues its 2026 seminar and tour programme, visits like this underline the importance of education, transparency and collaboration in shaping the next generation of fashion professionals.