A whirlwind week: Our entire year was given a brief to complete a whole 2D project with David Nieper in just 7 days. Our customer was a "mature, single British Woman, planning to go on a cruise." She was also interested in meeting new people, and had a taste for "British style and elegance". It was really important to consider the fit of the garments, fabrics and colours, the costs and the implications of design and manufacturing. We needed to submit a whole sketchbook along with a portfolio of our line up and 4 outfits with specs alongside them.
When we received the brief I had already researched David Nieper as a brand so that I had a direction when the busy week began. I then looked at my muse, which was a mix between celebrity and family members that are more mature but still beautifully stylish and elegant. I thought about what my muse loved: the 60's, 70's and 80's, along with 'Classic British', where my research varied from William Morris to Afternoon Tea and Classic British Cars. These inspired print and colour.
The cruise was obviously a big part of my research as well. Primary and secondary research helped me to understand the garment types that may be worn by my muse as she embarks on her adventure.
After I compiled my body of research I designed around 35 garments and then chose my final 4 outfits.
The project went by in a blink of an eye and was a huge challenge to complete because of the time, but I managed to get it all in on time and I really enjoyed the brief. Working for a market level that I haven't considered before opened my eyes and helped me realise I was capable of designing for a niché market.
