BA (Hons) Bespoke Tailoring student Rebecca George spoke to us for our LCFBA17 Class of 2017 series. She discusses her time at LCF, her final project as well as what inspires her work.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and the moment you knew you wanted to study fashion?
From a young age I’ve always been interested in fashion – I almost feel grateful for always knowing what I want to do. I believe that knowing exactly what you want to do in life is the hardest part and the rest is just perseverance. I was actually encouraged by an amazing tutor of mine in college to go onto further my skills in tailoring and I have grown so much in my skill level since then.
Talk us through your final project/collection/research/piece…
My final collection was firstly inspired by algae-forming organisms, such as moss and lichen. I was intrigued by the texture and various tones of greens and oranges. Through this I carried out further research into the different ways I could communicate this texture onto a garment. I came across various embroidery techniques, but decided on the most appropriate which were French knots. Through the build up of the knots in various yarn thicknesses, I was able to create a moss-like texture. The official silhouette of my garments were inspired by my client’s Vietnamese heritage, I use elements inspired by historical Vietnamese dress such as robes, tied fastenings and mandarin collars.
What techniques or theories did you use to create your final piece of work?
I used hand-crafted bespoke tailoring techniques on each of my garments, and French knot hand embroidery on wools and linens.
Have you undertaken any work experience or done a placement whilst at LCF?
I spent my five week work placement at Holly Fulton, I saw the advertisement of the placement through LCF careers and applied through that.
Have you met or been inspired by any speakers from the industry whilst at LCF?
I managed to get the opportunity of having a few sessions with June Lawlor, she shared her success with us, and also helped us with tips on how to present ourselves through our CV and in interviews with industry. I found it quite hard to talk about myself and describe my work, and I felt as though she helped me to fully recognise and own who I am as a designer.
Describe your work and aesthetic in five words…
Menswear, bespoke tailoring, contemporary, organic, ethnic.
Do you have a muse?
I am inspired by many of the people, musicians and artists that I am fortunate to be surrounded by. I would say that at the moment I am mainly inspired by my partner who is a artist and music producer. His work has inspired mine in the past, but his heritage has inspired a large part of my recent work through my final collection. I’m influenced by culture, ethnicity and natural elements.
What are your plans for the future?
I plan to work in industry for a few years, developing further knowledge into one day have my own clothing line.
Have you heard that LCF is moving to east London? What do you think about the move?
I think its great! Having all courses in one building will help with the interaction of all courses, one thing I regret is not interacting enough with other students of different courses.
What do you think Brexit means for the fashion industry and studying in London?
British fashion attracts a wide range of international flare, and prides themselves on this. However, questions are left for international students on visa requirements. This lessens the appeal and the attraction of potential top designers internationally.
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