At one of the many Brighton Frocks rehearsals that has taken place, last weekend I met the lovely Paola Galelli who is showcasing her collection for the very first time at this year's theatrical catwalk show.

Paola is incredibly excited at the moment not only because of the forthcoming show, but because she also graduates in four weeks time from a BA (Hons) Fashion and Design at Worthing University, where she has been for the last four years.

Specialising in women's wear and working in a cocktail bar alongside getting her University collection together, Paola is truly a shining example of how working hard can make your dreams become a reality.

Last year, Paola underwent a work placement at PPQ of Mayfair (one of my personal favourites and one of the main reasons the party dress is back in-vogue) where she played a huge part in design research and development whilst working closely with the designers.

With PPQ still remaining a strong influence in her work, Paola has chosen to create an all-dress collection for Brighton Frocks. Re-inventing the cocktail dress, the 'Shaken and Stirred' collection takes inspiration directly from Dior, the founder of the ultimate cocktail dress and even looks to the cocktails themselves for a colourful and creative twist.

So Paola, tell us a bit more.... When did you start designing clothes and what inspired you to do so?

I started designing clothes when I was in college. I made a complete fairy costume for a charity event and then linked it into my art and textiles A/S Level. I got a B for it which really made me think about how much I enjoyed it, plus I was good at it. This led me onto a foundation degree where I followed the route of fashion and textiles. This course resulted in me securing my place on the three year BA (Hons) Fashion and Design course. During my Fashion and Design degree I began to make more garments and then following my work placement at PPQ I started focusing my talents on skinny trousers and dresses.

What is the one thing women want when they come to you for a new frock?

Something girly, something different and definitely something unique!

Who are your main influences?

My opinion of fashion was completely turned around by the Dior Golden Age of Couture at the V & A. I based my dissertation on him and then was so utterly besotted with his ideas that I based my whole collection around his Cocktail dresses! I find Dior so inspiring and always look at his work when starting my design research.

What's the best thing about taking part in Brighton Frocks this year?

I am so pleased to be in Brighton Frocks this year as it enables me to showcase my collection and really demonstrate to everyone exactly the way I want my collection to be seen. Unfortunately not all students get to have their own catwalk at Graduate Fashion Week so Brighton Frocks is like a shining beacon for all those students.

What's your five-year dream?

In five years time I would love to be in a fresh up and coming studio as an assistant designer, as I work well with a team, which I discovered while at PPQ. If not I would love to be a costume designer as I love films and books almost as much as I love design!

What food can't you help snacking on, even though you shouldn't?

I do have several tubs of Ben and Jerry Cookies and Cream to hand which gets munched on almost every night with a film.

What's your favourite treat?

As my dad is Italian and also a chef I LOVE my food! And if you put olives or salami in front of me you better watch your hands!

What's your favourite tipple?

I am definitely a cocktail kind of girl and will happily drink Mojito's till the sun goes down How do you stay in shape and keep fit?

I work in a very busy bar in my hometown that involves a lot of running around. I have also represented England in Judo so do a lot of training to keep in shape. I also enjoy going for hike and walks around the downs.

Have you ever dieted?

Not really. I have never really followed a set routine when I want to lose weight; I just eat a lot more veg and fruit rather than some drastic cutting out of things I enjoy.

Any health vices you'd admit to?

I do enjoy a good big mug of hot chocolate!

What's your best health/diet tip?

Vegetable soup I absolutely swear by it!

What do you love about your body?

I love being short and I love having long hair and blue eyes!

And what's your least favourite bit?

I hate feet I think mine are really ugly!

If you could look like someone other than yourself, who would it be?

Liv Tyler is beautiful and I loved her in Lord of the Rings and she got to kiss Aragon!!!

Do you have a tip for body confidence?

I was always a very self-conscious teenager but I found styling myself on someone I admired helped me. Then when I knew what I liked to wear and what suited me I feel into my own style and have never looked back! I wear what I like.

When do you feel sexiest?

When I am wearing heels!

What's your idea of happiness?

Waking up excited and ready to start my day because I am doing something I love!

When are you at your best?

When I have a challenge or problem to solve! When things begin to pile up and I have to work really hard I come into my own!

How do you chill out?

I usually read a book, watch a film or put on some music while cooking and sing my heart out into a wooden spoon.

What can't you live without?

BOOKS! MUSIC and a sketchbook to doodle in!

What are your three desert island essentials?

A book and a totally hot swimsuit to help me get rescued! And of course Captain Jack Sparrow!

Do you have a secret celebrity crush?

I absolutely fancy to pants off of Rob Pattinson from Twilight! He is so yummy!!

Describe yourself in three words?

Girly, fiery and talkative!

Describe Brighton in three words?

Innovative, welcoming and quirky

Does Brighton rock? Why?

HELL YEAH! For all of the reasons stated above!

For more about or to get in touch with Paola, visit :http://www.fashionspace.com/PaolaGalelli