As part of London Design Festival 2017, accessories brand Ally Capellino has collaborated with Lyle’s restaurant in Shoreditch to produce a limited edition of 30 orange aprons. The aprons were made at LCF’s Making for Change fashion training and manufacturing unit at HMP Downview women’s prison.
Ally Capellino and Lyle’s share a love of straightforward products that show the best of raw materials. Made in British Waxed Cotton, a signature Ally Capellino fabric, the apron is a more considered take on the norm with removable, adjustable bridle leather straps. Inspired by the Ally Capellino AW17 campaign which was shot at the restaurant, the apron is packed in its own metal sandwich tin also containing a special Lyle’s autumnal recipe card.
A partnership between the Ministry of Justice and London College of Fashion, Making for Change aims to increase well-being and reduce the rate of reoffending amongst participants by equipping them with professional skills and qualifications within a supportive environment. Making for Change delivers Level 1 & 2 ABC awards in Fashion & Textiles alongside the production of commercial orders, which provides participants with real work experience as part of their training. LCF’s connections with manufacturers ensure that training reflects up-to-date production methods and techniques, as well as offering links to potential employers on release.
Alison Lloyd, Creative Director and founder of Ally Capellino said of the collaboration:
I am proud to be partnering with Making for Change to create a limited edition product for London Design Festival. I have always felt strongly about supporting local community groups and through this project I hope to highlight the quality of training offered within HMP Downview, demonstrating that when ex-offenders are equipped with valuable skills they can find sustainable employment whilst also helping to revive London manufacturing.
Ally Capellino has previously supported Social Responsibility projects at LCF, sharing industry expertise with participants on the Design+Make collaborative project with Art Against Knives, as well as hosting a celebratory event for the project at the Shoreditch store in July 2016.
The apron is available to purchase for £85 at both Lyle’s and Ally Capellino stores in Shoreditch and Portobello, as well as online.
For a chance to win one of the limited edition Tinned Aprons, along with a lunch for two (up to £120) at Lyle’s, enter the competition over at Ally Capellino. Competition closes at midnight on Sunday 24th September 2017.