Never trust the British weather.

Here in Britain we have a fashion conundrum that some of you may associate with. It's a beautiful sunny day, and I'm feeling the need to crack the sunnies out. However, it is still cold outside and I'm fearful to shed the beloved winter coat that I have been living in for about 3 months now. Hence, the dilemma. It's just not right wearing sunglasses with a coat! Damn you British weather, for being difficult, unreliable, and frankly, for making fashion styling decisions such a chore.

When researching trends and forecasts for Spring/Summer 2013, it became clear that it's very important to consider the weather when designing clothes and pushing certain trends for different seasons. When you're out and about and suddenly black clouds in the sky form around you, you'll be glad that you stuffed that waterproof poncho in your bag. And lets be honest, it's not always going to be "shorts and t-shirt" weather. When deciding on the trend of 'Into the Wild', mixed with a bit of traveller chic for my 'What's next?' collection, the importance of trench coats, lightweight ponchos and slouchy long skirts fitted in with the practical side of my design ethos. The outerwear garments show a development from the waterproof capes that are in my current Autumn/Winter collection, which is great in showing an ongoing theme throughout my work.

When it comes to fabrics and colour palettes, weather should also be considered. Fabrics are lighter in weight than for winter garments, but can still protect from the disconcerting weather. The fabrics I would like to work with are natural, and have the ability to be smart and casual. I chose this colour palette as the shades are toned down, soft and fit with the relaxed garment style.

N.B. Always stash a poncho in your bag. Don't wear sunglasses with a coat.

 



'CATALAN EXPOSURE' - Watch this space!

So I've had the blog up and running for over a month now, but have neglected to spill the beans on what I'm up to for my final collection at uni. I focused all my research on the cultured city of Barcelona, mainly using the architecture as my inspiration. A lot of the architecture was designed by Antoni Gaudi, a man of many talents who designed several landmarks in the city, including Park Guell, Casa Batllo and his most famous piece of work, La Sagrada Familia. This exquisite Roman Catholic church is formed by a collection of religious sculptures, geometric patterns, and intricate carvings all creating a gothic atmosphere. What you probably wouldn't realise is that it still isn't complete; Gaudi died in 1926 with only a quarter of the church finished. The aim is for it to be completed by 2026, 100 years after Gaudi's death.

The textures on the buildings really inspired me, looking at the contrasts from the exterior and interior. The branching columns, pillars and irregular shapes all helped me when designing my collection.

After 8 months of work towards it so far, I am happy to say that it has all come together after finishing my first outfit for our photoshoot! I don't want to give too much away before the show so this will be it on the degree front, but this is part of an Autumn/Winter Collection of Ready to Wear outer-coats, waterproof capes, and smart daywear garments. Trend research for the coming winter season featured capes primarily, as well as earthy textures and feature fastenings which I have incorporated into my collection. Here is the first outcome - feedback muchly appreciated!