Meet Hannah Mills From Southampton Solent University And Her 'Romance In Rebellion' Design Collection For Fashion
I am a versatile designer, excited to get stuck into the fashion industry. I enjoy work that allows me to both think creatively and use my problem-solving skills, across various specialisms.
I love working within a team; during my time at university, I was a member of the Cheerleading Society, competing in a range of competitions and charity events.
I have an interest in the business of sustainable fashion, and how technology can be used within the industry to aid in solving environmental issues; a key theme of my final year dissertation.
Whilst at University, I have completed a number of design projects, researching and developing ideas through brand, market and trend research, gaining a strong understanding of market needs and brand identity to create on-trend themes and concepts.
I have particularly enjoyed gaining pattern-cutting skills and knowledge of garment construction, which has allowed me to make my creative visions a reality.
This Collection Aims To Reflect A 'Nature Revolution'; An Undeniable, Rebellious And Powerful Force.
In a world increasingly driven by technological advancements, the natural world can seem frail and delicate; destroyed by mankind as we take selfishly from it without nurturing or replenishing.
Paradoxically, in 2020, the world was reminded of the true power of nature as it rebelled against humanity and took back control in the form of a virus.
With our lives ground to a halt, cities deserted and skies empty, the ecosystem began a recovery with trees, plants, and wildlife replenishing.
A parallel is drawn from the French Revolution where the status quo was overthrown and the establishment lost its power.
Design is informed by disrupting military uniform and women's dress from this era with organic, natural forms.
Garments consequently include both exaggerated, structured tailoring with gathered soft and draped elements.
Further inspiration is taken from decaying 18th century architecture - the romance and beauty found in nature reclaiming man-made spaces.
I have enjoyed experimenting with textiles and print design.
My Final major project included a traditional Toile-de-Jouy print updated to reflect our current lives during the global pandemic, using items such facemasks and PPE which has become part of the ‘new normal’, in contrast with the landscape associated with traditional French fabrics.
I also enjoyed experimenting with different ways that wool could be used to create natural shapes, experimenting with weaving and knitting.
I also experimented with punch needling; a technique I discovered during lockdown, which allowed me to create irregular and bulbous shapes that could ‘grow’ from the garments.
