Kayleigh Flattery’s graduate collection embodies the eclectic style the designer confesses to having. “I have drawn inspiration from varied sources with print being influenced by traditional Eastern European fabrics and culture; silhouette and fabrics being influenced by body wear; panel details being influenced by 1950’s contouring under garments and construction being influenced by lingerie techniques.”
“I have then drawn all of these influences together to create a collection that is eclectic whilst remaining fun and sexy.”
Find out what else the creative and inspired designer had to say about designing clothes.
What was the inspiration behing your Graduate Week Fashion Week collection?
The print was inspired by my travels and research. However, the silhouette, fabric choices and construction were influenced by the knowledge I gained on my degree.
I studied for the first two years of my degree on the Fashion and Contour BA course at De Montfort University before switching in my final year to the Fashion BA course. My first two years of study gave me a fantastic grounding in fit of body wear as well as knowledge of technical fabrics. Therefore, I based my collection around this knowledge using body con silhouettes and technical body wear fabrics such as power net and lingerie elastics. I also have a love for 1950’s underwear and so took many of the panelling details from original girdles and contouring under wear.
Could you tell us more about your print design (how the idea started, your inspirations, etc)?
The inspiration for the print design came from a visit to Eastern Europe in the summer of my second year at university. I found myself fascinated by the culture and vibrancy of the cities I visited and spent many an afternoon wondering through bustling market places, looking at traditional textiles. However, my main inspiration came from the older generation of people and the stall holders. I loved the way they dressed mixing prints and textures in layers.
Once back in the UK I decided to investigate more about Eastern European culture and stumbled upon an old Russian photograph of a man with a dancing bear. I thought this was a really strong image and so that, teamed with my research into traditional prints, formed the basis for my print inspiration.
What’s the best thing about designing clothes?
Designing clothes is both my hobby and my job. I spend all day designing for the high street, which is fantastic but can be a little restrictive. Therefore I find it fantastic to be able to sit down after work or at the weekend and let my mind run wild with whatever print, colour or silhouette I want. Designing is a great escape and I can easily lose hours to it.
