An inspiring collection of material and colour experiments by faithjanewray at #RCAWIP15 that explore tactility, mixing the notion of a hard and soft surface. I'm looking forward to seeing how this designer continues on her creative journey as she introduces ceramics!

@faithjanewray

Playful Style from one we made earlier

It has been said and I agree that the way we dress has a real impact on our attitude and mind-set. You get up in the morning, choose one of your favourite outfits, then put your face on and feel like you can deal anything the day wants to throw your way. But what’s missing? Jewellery of course. Those lovely accessories that you enjoy picking out (they always fit!) and they just add a little something to your look.

I came across one we made earlier last year at Design Junction during the London Design Festival and not only did the branding make me smile but the collection of contemporary accessories called out to me.

Based in London, husband and wife team Emma and Rob Orchardson draw on their backgrounds in fine art and design to create bold statement pieces.

Their work combines a playful sense of fun, with a striking geometric simplicity. Primary brights complement monochrome pieces, with DuPont™ Corian® Solid Surfaces used to introduce pattern into the balance of shapes and colour. The solid geometric components are presented on a chunky adjustable cord that can be worn at neck length or as a pendant, all adding to the playful charm that defines the brand.

All products are handmade in the London studio and get sent out packaged in a branded kraft tube. They really have thought of everything to make this a totally uplifting experience from purchasing to wearing!

www.onewemadeearlier.bigcartel.com

OTAGO: Inspiring the Future of Craft

Yesterday I visited three events in one: Top Drawer, Home and CRAFT. All three fairs give visitors an insight into what’s new in terms of gifts, homeware and not least of all original design, all with a commercial appeal. I am always inspired and excited when speaking to designer-makers who put a lot of thought and meaning into their collections.

Considered design is certainly trending at the moment and not only are consumers looking for all things new and exciting, they are also seeking out designs that tell a story and interact with users on an emotional level. Colour, pattern and texture are key here, used to enhance the practical aspects of many a product.

One brand that lives and breathes thoughtful design is OTAGO, an ethical design company founded by design duo Anna Rose and Eddie Sercombe in 2013. I first came across this brand during Tent, London and am pleased to see that it is going from strength to strength.

‘Timeless objects for people who define their own style,’ is the brand’s motto, creating visually inspiring products. Not only that though, these are objects with a real soul.

Otago collaborates with artisans from marginalised communities to create collections of fine objects for the contemporary interior. By incorporating local artisanal skill with cutting edge design, Otago creates beautiful pieces for the home. The debut collection features pieces made by artisans in East Africa.

Focusing on the ethical sourcing of the products, as well as the quality of the design and craftsmanship, the duo work with makers to provide the services they need to preserve and enhance artistic traditions. Otago keeps them up to date with new ideas and design techniques, whilst ensuring fair trade standards are maintained. This sharing of knowledge and exchanging of skills ensures unique craft can and will live on in our trend driven world.

As of this month Oatgo will have pieces from its collection in London's most desirable shopping destination Selfridges & Co. Products will also be available on its own online store very soon.

Women Fashion Power, Design Museum London

I'm really looking forward to visiting this exhibition next week.

"Women Fashion Power offers an unprecedented look at how princesses, models, CEOs, Dames and designers have used fashion to define and enhance their position in the world."

The latest exhibition at the Fashion and Textile Museum explores one of the most fundamental textile techniques, knitting, that has been on an inspiring journey over centuries.

The Content:

Taking examples from the private collection of Mark and Cleo Butterfield, the exhibition guides you through their personal approach and passion for knitted garments. Far more than a historical overview, we are immersed in the emotional aspects of design where hand knits, machine knits, crocheted garments and experimental high fashion pieces all hold a narrative. Groups include Fashionable Folk, Make Do and Mend and A New Era with each area telling its own unique story. With collections coming from decades past it is fascinating to see the journey this particular technique has been on and how it is still central to fashion design today.

The Exhibition Design:

Imagined by Beth Ojari, FTM's in-house exhibition designer, Knitwear is another impressive example of how the exhibition space can be transformed so that you are completely absorbed into the work on display. Raw and industrial in feel, the collections are sectioned within timber cases that form a simple but considered contrast to the fashion pieces. A black background covers the museum walls; a cocoon is created proving that dark colours can be comforting as well as sumptuous.

I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to the exhibition and have gained a new respect for all those knitters out there who really do wear there heart on their sleeve.

Yesterday I met with Murray Weir Willats, the communications and public relations agency for design, luxury interiors and lifestyle. They represent Dedar, the fabric, wallpaper and trimmings brand based in Italy. Their style is absolute luxury with colour, texture and pattern constantly being reviewed for new collections. What I love about Dedar is their attention to detail, pushing the boundaries of high quality materials and always offering something new to the consumer.

The latest developments take inspiration from tribal and urban aesthetics. A real celebration of British design can be seen in new jacquard designs where a sartorial style is adopted. Beautifully soft velvets celebrate rich colour and texture, driven by discoveries from the founders' travels.

It's always interesting to see how designers are transforming traditional designs and techniques into contemporary offerings. These new designs will be officially launched next year so unfortunately I can't share any images with you yet but I can assure you the wait will be worth it.