A University of Chester graduate will star in the second series of an ITV series.

Alexandra Novacki has been selected to showcase her design skills as a contestant on the acclaimed primetime programme, 'M&S: Dress The Nation'.

Originally from Derbyshire, Alex graduated from the University of Chester in 2023.

Last year the 25-year-old staged one of her largest runway shows in the north west to date - a milestone that highlighted her rising status in the fashion industry.

"It was a great career milestone to design on television for millions to see," Alex said.

"What goes on behind the scenes is sometimes more interesting than the shows themselves. What a dream it was to work alongside such talent."

Following the success of the first series, which attracted more than eight million viewers, the show has made a return with hosts AJ Odudu and Vernon Kay. 

Alex is one of nine candidates taking on a range of challenges designed to test their design, problem-solving, commercial and collaboration skills.

As part of M&S' search for the very best emerging fashion designer, the winner will receive exclusive mentorship from the brand, working alongside top industry professionals across design, buying, merchandising and marketing.

The winning design will also be sold in selected M&S stores and online for the AW25 season.

Katie Rawcliffe, director of entertainment and daytime ITV, said: "At its core, it's about creativity and opportunity, opening up the fashion world to new voices and perspectives.

"Viewers really connected with that last year, and this new series promises to be even bigger, bolder and more inspiring."

The first episode will air on Sunday 14 September at 6:55pm on ITV1 and ITVX.