Barnet former dancer wins ITV1's M&S: Dress the Nation

David Olaniyi was working on the Micheal Jackson Thriller show and Take That tour when he first learned how to alter his costumes from the wardrobe lady, before turning to YouTube for more tips.

The Cockfosters man went on to secure an apprenticeship at the National Theatre, where he mastered his craft.

He has now won the six-part ITV1 series M&S: Dress the Nation, earning him a job at the high street firm and the chance to design his own collection.

Winning the challenge was a ‘dream come true’ for David.

He said: “I didn't expect to win, I just went in just to have fun and meet some like-minded people.

M&S: Dress the Nation winner David’s final collection featured in final episode catwalk show (Image: ITV1)

“Landing a role in the M&S design team is everything to me - it will give me stability as I pursue my dream of becoming a designer.

“It is going to be mind blowing to see my designs in stores around the country.”

Michael Jackson was always a style icon for David, so it was only fitting that he discovered his love for fashion while performing in the West End show.

David Olaniyi, a former dancer from Barnet, has been crowned the winner of the ITV1 challenge M&S: Dress the Nation (Image: ITV1)

The 38-year-old said: “My clothing is influenced by my dance background.

“I’m always going to be dancing, so my clothing is designed so that I’m always free and ready to dance.”

David was thrown out of his comfort zone by some of the challenges in the series, but tackled them head on using his creativity.

He said: “Many of the challenges were female-based and I’m more of a menswear designer.

“It was definitely a shock when I found out the first round was a summer dress - I’d never made a dress before, so I thought I was out!”

David’s sister was his “guinea pig” for styling, and she’s such a fan of his designs she now “shops” in his room.

His mum, dad, sister and brother will all be gifted pieces from his collection to thank them for their support.

Having only worked one-on-one with clients, David is excited to get started as part of the team at M&S.

“I like collaborating and it’ll be great to have people to bounce things off and be able to pick the brains of people that know the industry”, he added.