Simpson Ma studied BA (Hons) Fashion Jewellery at LCF and is graduating as part of the class of 2017. He spoke to us about his final collection, his time at LCF and plans for the future.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and the moment you knew you wanted to study fashion?
I was going to study fine art at first but as soon as I realised how many essays and books I needed in order to graduate, I chose a fashion related subject instead. I think fine art and jewellery share a common way of expressing personal feelings. Jewellery for me is more expressive in a way, because it can be a lifestyle and essential thing that you cant live without.
My collection developed from personal emotion. There are certain things that grab my feeling, an extra long sleeve for example that covers my hands make me feel like I am being protected from outside the world. I feel like we have already exposed ourselves too much to the world.
I have made a pin, which grabs the ruffles created by the excess fabrics on extra long sleeves, to represent society forcing people to reveal themselves regardless their willingness.
What techniques or theories did you use to create your final piece of work?
I have covered metal and pendants with fabric such as leather and denim. By making an actual pattern for the thing to be wrapped, it feels like making clothes. Most of my metal work had applied forging to create a curved, round shape in order to fit nicely on the body.
Have you met or been inspired by any speakers from the industry whilst at LCF?
Yes, NOEL STEWART – he had very inspiring hat designs that he worked on with other designers too.
Describe your work in a few words…
Personal, slick, rough.
Do you have a muse?
My girlfriend because she is always logical. I am also influenced by subcultures.
What are your plans for the future?
I would like to get a jewellery or fashion related job here, if not I am probably going to start a bubble tea bar in Stratford.
Have you heard that LCF is moving to east London? What do you think about the move?
Smart move.
What do you think Brexit means for the fashion industry and studying in London?
The fashion industry is worth £28 billion to the British economy and provided 880,000 jobs. It is alarming therefore that our retail big issues survey in April 2016 found 84% of CEOs were concerned about Brexit and a leave vote was viewed as the top negative impact on consumer confidence over the next 12 months. This was for a number of reasons. Firstly, currency volatility and a weaker pound could mean higher manufacturing costs in factories abroad. Secondly, uncertainty concerning the future could lower customer confidence and purchases in non-essential goods. Thirdly, the British fashion industry has many international connections and networks, and leaving the EU could affect the aspirations of promising designers and talent.
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