About Me
Hi, I'm Emily studying Fashion & Textiles at University of Portsmouth
From a young age I have always had a connection to the natural world around us. I enjoy spending my time immersing myself in nature and watching the delicacy of wildlife. As I have grown, my love and passion for nature has influenced my decisions when designing and making garments.
With all my creative work I strive to recycle, upcycle, and raise awareness for the climate crisis we find ourselves in. I believe it is my duty to be the voice nature so desperately needs. Once I have graduated my aim is to continue spreading awareness and working alongside fashion labels while maintaining my eco-friendly, sustainable outlook.
INSPIRATION
I believe grief takes many shapes and forms, mine, Turadh.
The concept for my collection stems from the hurt I have experienced through grieving my Nan’s death and the many tears I have shed. I lost my Nan to cancer, summer 2020. My Nan not only inspired me through threads, sequins, and buttons but also through her positive mindset, determination and passion for the outdoors; particularly the impact humans have on earth and land use. When my Nan was informed her cancer was terminal she took to her sewing box and created unique felt rabbits for her grandchildren.
My handmade rabbit is a staple element of my concept as it represents my Nans love and determination. Through the years I spent with my Nan, she often shared stories about our rich family heritage and how we were related to Sir Thomas Wardle. Wardle was a British businessman, known for his innovations in silk dyeing and printing on silk. Wardle collaborated with the designer William Morris.
MY WORK
PORTFOLIOS
Mood/Concept
Research Trip
Family Heritage & Connections
Colour development
Range Plan
Textile Research & Development
Garment Research & Development
Location Photo shoot
Garment Details
Studio Shoot
Studio Shoot
Collection Statement
DETAIL
Throughout this collection, details are delicately handcrafted and sustainably sourced.
The silhouettes in my collection are inspired by traditional Scottish tailoring. The orange tailored coat has been recreated from my nan's unfinished tiny rabbit coat project. Turadh consists of responsibly sourced Scottish wool tweeds that were purchased from local Scottish businesses. I have used recycled embroidery threads that were donated to me and glass beads to ensure my embellishments are as sustainable as the wool tweeds. The silk lining in the waistcoat has been naturally dyed using the same dying techniques my late decedent Sir Thomas Wardle once used. I have created my own William Morris inspired lining print that incorporated my Nan’s and Dad’s birth flowers while also featuring a running rabbit which represent my Nan running free from the pain she was once in. The resin buttons on the orange tailored coat contain pressed floral and fern from my Nan’s funeral flowers and Scotland. Autumnal Highland hues can be seen throughout my collection, encapsulating the beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful." - Herman Cain
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