Think fresh, forward, fashion. What comes to mind? Frock Paper Scissors, an annual magazine published by fashion, journalism, creative industry, business and visual design students. Frock, as it is affectionately known, features the ins-and-outs of the fashion industry.
Now in its third year, Frock is produced entirely by Queensland University of Technology (QUT)students of the Creative Industries Precinct in Brisbane Queensland.
The magazine is considered a collaborative project, throwing students head first into the publishing industry, from editing and layout, to marketing and distribution.
QUT’s Fashion and Style Journalism Coordinator and Managing Editor of Frock Paper Scissors, Kay McMahon, says students are offered a practical opportunity to involve themselves in the workings of a magazine.
“It’s a very hands-on unit and it allows students to expose themselves to an industry that they may end up working in after completing their studies,” says McMahon.
“Each student gains theoretical and practical experience and hopefully the publication will be an effective tool when it comes time to building their CV.”
The Queensland University of Technology is one of the only universities in Australia to offer a subject completely devoted to Fashion and Style Journalism and according to this year’s Editor, Peta Rake, it’s an opportunity of a lifetime.
“FPS is a unique opportunity in which individuals from many disciplines can bring valuable and creative ideas to the table,” says Rake.
“The chance to work on a ‘real world’ magazine is rare, but FPS is an excellent creative outlet.”
Each page represents the students’ unique publishing style, featuring the latest QUT Fashion Graduate Collections, arts reviews and lifestyle columns which explain the magazine’s roaring success.
Distributed in cafés, boutiques and art galleries around the inner city, FPS has also been formatted as an online magazine, with additional content such as fashion maps, street style snaps and interactive features.
FPS Web Editor Lauren Burvill, says having a complementary, online website will showcase what the Brisbane fashion industry has to offer.
“This year we have an entire web team dedicated to bringing FPS to the forefront of online fashion magazines…making it easier to promote Brisbane to a wider audience,” Burvill says.
FPS is amongst a long list of fashion publications, but its sense of unique style, professional content and the dedication and passion of its contributors, ultimately sets it apart from the rest.
The launch of the 2008 edition of FPS magazine will accompany the QUT Graduate Fashion Parade, held at Kelvin Grove on November 20.
So, don’t wait. Get Fresh, Forward, Fashion in Frock NOW!