Parental Guidance

This collection is inspired by my parents’ alternative style in Leeds, 1980's, which I interviewed them about for my dissertation and final collection. Additional inspiration comes from imagery from my childhood home and gothic illustrators, such as Aubrey Beardsley and Harry Clarke. Different subgenres of the Goth subculture have been drawn together to inspire silhouette, colour palette and mood. Symbolism from my home is featured through hand-carved lino print, individually pressed onto the garments. Corsetry is a main feature of this collection, being used both as undergarments and outerwear to create exaggerated silhouettes. All garments have been hand-made by me, using tailoring and corsetry techniques, as well as with a variety of natural fibre fabrics, ranging from wool tweeds to linens and cottons. Pattern pieces were laid out carefully to reduce waste and high-quality, carefully selected fabrics are used to withstand wear.