1. How would you describe your approach to menswear?

I approach menswear as though it is a blank canvas. I see endless possibilities. I think the evolution of menswear is something to behold it’s something so uncharted in comparison to many other components of fashion. I like the playful nature of high end menswear I think because it is such a new thing you can really make up the rules as you go. I like combining the classic nature of tailored menswear silhouettes with digital elements, sustainable intentions.

2. What do you think your work reveals about your perspective or personality as a designer?

As a mixed race designer I’m always inspired by my unique perspective and mixing elements of my own culture into my craftsmanship. I think my perspective I’m massively influenced by human connection and cultural identity. I design from a perspective that isn’t showcased often enough within the industry. I think individuality is a gift and it’s something that I chose to explore creatively.

3. Who or what are the main influences behind your work?

My final collection at university was dedicated to my grandad Billy who’s career as a marine fitter took him all over the world. He travelled port to port, repairing ships, whilst his passport became a reflection of the rich cultural tapestry he experienced. My grandads personal style is so influential to the way I make clothes. During his travels he would pick up pieces from all over leather jackets from Italy, graphic T-shirts from the Philippines, etc. He curated some beautiful pieces that reflect my personal design aesthetic.

4. You recently won the Catwalk Colour Award at Graduate Fashion Week, how does colour play a role in your work?

My first point of call when creating is a colour palette. I do tons of research into colour as it’s the first thing that draws my eye. I’m a very colourful person in general. Colour is monumental to my fabric selection process when combining colour with texture it has to feel vibrant and full of life.

5. What are your next steps, or what would you like to explore in the future?

I am really focusing on further developing my digital design skills. Everything I design in the physical world has a digital twin that is accessible via qr codes on every physical garment. I like blending the digital and physical together and allowing the consumer to decide how they would like to process my work. I would love to see how far I am able to push this idea in the future as digital design softwares are becoming increasingly important and forever evolving and I intend on evolving with it. I’m inspired by the newness that the future has to offer.