Beneath the Surface One
Overview

For this project I chose to use recycled wool carpet underlay as the basis of the collection. Working with this fabric follows the theme of using interior materials designed to be hidden from view and showcasing them as beautiful materials in their own right. Using interior materials and exploring the possibility of what can be achieved brings with it many challenges and difficulties. Yet through the process of thorough experimentation, I was able to see what this new material's capabilities were and how I was able to manipulate it and work with it to create a unique collection that is true to my design handwriting.

Not only did I use a material more commonly associated with interior spaces, but also sourced inspiration for the collection from iconic pieces of furniture by designers and architects; Frank Lloyd Wright, Joe Colombo and Roger Tallon.

The collection was presented as a dance performance to show that despite being a conceptual collection, all the clothing was still truly 'wearable'. The dynamic interaction between the dancers and the clothing brought the clothing to life and this vibrant way of presenting clothing will always be integral to my work.

Materials
Wool Underlay, Copper Wire, Jute Rope, Cotton Thread, Upholstery Webbing

Date of Production
April 2018

Press Release
Press Release

A south London-based designer has created a fashion show with
a difference – by dressing the models in garments made out of recycled carpet underlay.

Isabel Fletcher, who graduated from Leeds University with a First Class degree in Fashion Design last year, will present the conceptual collection during a dance performance in Brixton.
The carpet underlay is made by mixing recycled wool with jute fibers.
The 23-year-old said: ‘While carpet underlay is not something you would expect to be beautiful, it has its own unique style due to the random mix of colours and yarns running through it. I wanted to challenge myself by choosing a material not usually associated with fashion.’

The project’s theme derives from the location of this show, the Animali Domestici Italian Arts & Design Studio. This Grade II listed Victorian building in Brixton showcases contemporary furniture leading Isabel to take shape inspiration from iconic interior decor and furniture by designers and architects like Frank Lloyd Wright, Joe Colombo and Roger Tallon.

This small collection is intricately designed and each element carefully considered. Isabel said: ‘My aim is to bridge different crafts and forms of creativity to reveal the beauty in things that may otherwise be overlooked. The materials beneath the surface of a piece of furniture or interior decor have practical functions but are also have aesthetic appeal in their own right.’

This ethos has led Isabel to showcase recycled carpet underlay as the core fabric in the collection. Not only is the material insulating, but also an exciting alternative material for clothing. Its structure creates fascinating shapes on the body, allowing Isabel to fully visualise her research of chairs and furniture into the final garments.