Meet James Tree From Manchester Fashion Institute─Winner Of The Manchester Metropolitan University Catwalk At Graduate Fashion Week 2023
Hi, I'm James, a Fashion Design and Technology graduate from MFI
My work predominantly focuses on pattern cutting, technical construction methods, print and hand finishings, considering how each element can complement one another to create a distinct process-focused aesthetic.
Within my creative practice I constantly seek to explore innovative pattern cutting methods, and unique garment construction processes.
My admiration for handicraft practices drives my experimentation in hand crafted details and assembly.
As a designer I enjoy the combination of creative techniques and processes working together to form interesting outcomes.
The use of placement prints, specifically Trompe-l'œil, enhances my pieces and complements my muted colour palette, deconstructed design aesthetic and creative focus on form and shape.
Inspiration-One-Pattern-Piece
pattern cutting manifesto. - all garments cut from one-pattern-piece, rejecting traditional pattern cutting rules and methods. - additional shaping implemented post-construction. - digitally printed garment with trompe l’oeil effect printed out in one-pattern-piece. - final garments aesthetic reflect design process of deconstruction and sensitivity. - garments constructed by hand or sewn with frayed edges in consideration of one-piece grain lines. - equal importance to the form of patterns as well as final garments. - process requires hybrid of digital and traditional techniques.
Detail
This collection has taken inspiration from form, utilising pattern cutting as a design tool.
Research inspiration on shapes that ignite a sense of motion.
Demonstrates how form can be utilised to create pattern pieces which are equally beautiful alone and once constructed.
Garments have been engineered to be cut from one-pattern-piece resulting in unconventional seams and a unique fit due to not being cut traditionally and with consideration of grain lines.
Twisting, pulling, pressing creases, and other physical fabric manipulations applied to the garments, post-construction, gives them a more desirable shape and texture layers.
Some garments are digitally printed on flax using a Trompe l’oeil effect to distort the humble fabrication’s texture, drape, finishings and details. This illusion is achieved via a curated placement print placed on each pattern piece.
The prints consist of a collection of found objects and archival garment details, extracted through photographs and edited digitally.
