Jessica Cathie

I focused my final year collection on my understanding and experience of the 'casual' subculture. Inspired by my dad’s love of the football culture and the simultaneous effect this has had on his ways of identity expression through dress. Market research began my final collection journey and I was quickly inspired by terrace fashion brands Stone Island and C.P. Company's innovative use of textiles, which led me to the process of foiling denim to increase its durability. The working class community also greatly inspired my work; I drew silhouettes from blue collar job protective uniforms, as well as military wear to resemble the resilience displayed by the community. Aside from textiles, functionality has been another key element with my design process, focusing on detachable elements which allow for wearer personalisation. In terms of future plans I am looking for an entry role within the industry that allows me to demonstrate my skill set and passion for commercial menswear and textiles.