ARCHIVE: Technology 20/21
To celebrate another academic year we look back at our graduates of 20/21…
Mark Harasimowicz
IG: @mh20236054
Future: BSc Fashion Technology at Heriot Watt, September 2021
I work with my hands - manipulate fabrics and materials, use tools, play with shape, form, structure, texture, colour. I solve problems, I make problems for myself that I then must solve. I experiment - make mistakes - find answers in these mistakes. I get absorbed in the three-dimensional process of finding details that transform ideas into garments.
I am attracted to the tactile and physical qualities of the discipline - finding ways of adapting materials to an idea, or an idea to materials. The handmade; hand-drawn, hand-manipulated, hand-processed stages that precede the final garments. I try to keep a trace of these stages in the final garments - some reference to the sketches, scribbled ideas and workings-out that initially started the process. I find satisfaction in the process of refining a garment through drafting patterns, experimenting with materials, sampling, making alterations - shifting and developing my initial plans. I appreciate the physicality of the tools, machinery, fabrics I use, and I am excited by the technical and creative possibilities they hold.
Alice McAllister
Future: BSc Fashion Technology at Heriot Watt, September 2021
My time at Glasgow Clyde College has been invaluable, giving me the opportunity to learn about industrial practice as well as a range of practical drafting and sewing techniques. As an associate student I will be continuing into 3rd year BSc Fashion Technology at Heriot Watt.
My recent practice has centered around sustainability working primarily with deadstock and post-consumer textiles. I focused on designing and making garments that take inspiration from the past in style and craftsmanship but with a modern functionality and focus on carbon neutral, ethical manufacturing. By studying the importance of prolonging the lifespan of existing garments, I have improved my knowledge of repair and alteration techniques. Further personal research into historical fashion has helped shape my understanding of design and provided inspiration for my own work.
I plan to launch my own fashion business upon graduation while seeking out further opportunities to work within fashion manufacturing
Eva Harrold
Instagram: @slow.stitch.studio
Future: Running a business Slow Stitch Studio, and working freelance in industry
Sustainable fashion and design was an interest of mine before college, and during my time here I have been encouraged to question practices within the fashion industry which promote waste and throw away culture. This has inspired me to design and make with longevity in mind, my COS collection is made from durable sustainable fabrics, with simple lines and contemporary versions of classic details throughout. Each garment is made to be cherished for years to come.
The Bespoke Tailoring unit was a favourite of mine this year, it was amazing to learn classic techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation of tailors and to gain further appreciation for the work that goes into every garment they create.
When not in college I run a mindful clothing and homeware business, Slow Stitch Studio. I produce items using classic craft techniques such as hand quilting with a contemporary and playful edge. And after college I would like to put more energy into furthering it, I aim to start running sewing classes through Slow Stitch Studio and work independently as a freelance seamstress within industry.
Xu Sun
Future: BSc Fashion Technology at Heriot Watt, September 2021
After 2 years of studying, I have gained more confidence to say that I absolutely love turning a 2D fashion drawing into a 3D garment.
To begin with, knowing which blocks should be used and how to manipulate them are essential. I sometimes need to research various resources and consider different aspects to find the answer. The real fun part always comes after the first toile is made because dissatisfactions or issues may come along. Troubleshooting is like playing puzzles – can be addictive.
In my opinion, the true beauties are not only about the final garments, but also concerning the chalk line on toiles, the notes of the amendment, the additional samples, the sewing details, and the decision-making moments in the entire process.
To learn more skills and develop myself further, I am going to continue my studying at Heriot Watt University. I hope the whole journey will lead me to my dream job – pattern cutter.
Michalina Gorczynska
Email: michalina.gorczynska@outlook.com
Future: BSc Fashion Technology at Heriot Watt, September 2021.
In the last couple years, I have become more aware of the negative impact that the clothing industry has on the environment. As a Fashion Technology student, I have gained multi-disciplinary skills, which allow me to develop new designs, and turned them into real fashion products in the most sustainable way. During my education I acquired practical knowledge about garment construction and an understanding of the key principles of the clothing industry. For me sustainability means functionality, minimalism and high-quality during designing and manufacturing. These are the traits I have tried to reflect in my final collection, and bridal garments. I get my inspiration from work of fashion designers like Peter Do and Alexander McQueen.
I have gained a placement in an Associate Programme with Heriot Watt University on a Fashion Technology course. This allows me to continue my education and gather skills to become either a Bespoke tailor or Costume Designer/Maker, and eventually move to self-employment and open my own brand with a primary focus on sustainability.
Francesca Rose
Email: francesca.rose237@gmail.com
Instagram: @francesca_rose.designs
Future: Attending Royal Conservatoire.
I enjoy watching my sketches become physical garments. It never fails to amaze me how you can start with something as simple as the phrase “a story on squares” and turn that into a collection of clothing. I love to pay close attention to detail in my work, and although that can sometimes make a task more difficult and time-consuming, I think perfectionism has been a help in creating garments I am proud of making.
Bridal was my favourite part of the course as I’ve always been fascinated by dresses – particularly floor-length gowns. Because of this, I have a great interest in historical dresses through the centuries and how they evolved as time moved on. This is one of the reasons I have chosen to study costume next year at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, where I was offered an unconditional place.
Merie Phillips Macdonald
Future: Modern Artisan Course at Dumfries House, July 2021
My strengths are in pattern cutting and solving problems through toile making and transferring back to patterns pieces. I like to see how to change a garment design through this process and have a strong understanding of how garments are and need to be constructed. I have gained valuable experience in bespoke tailoring through my training and very much enjoyed seeing all the different processes and in-depth construction of a properly tailored jacket.
I was nominated for my work to the Incorporation of Tailors at Trades House in Glasgow where I won the first prize of money to put towards fabrics and a membership.
I aim to go to Dumfries House to join a Modern Artisan course to further my skills in the industry. I would very much be looking to work in the sustainable fashion industry, working with others who have the same view of change in the industry - making lasting high-quality garments using sustainable fabrics to last.
