Katie Rickett
Peaks and Troughs
Peaks and Troughs is an AW27 collection centred around creating garments that encourage people to get outside. A peak on a mountain is it’s summit or highest point, where a trough refers to a low point between mountains or valleys and is often used in the context of a journey or an ascent. However, in the English language it is also a term that is often used to describe the ups and downs of life. As such, this phrase ties in with my Zeitgeist surrounding the state of the populations physical and mental health and the positive effect getting outside can have on it. Building on this, I explored how activities such as spending time outdoors, engaging in physical exercise, and wearing clothing that enhances our sense of self can positively influence serotonin and dopamine levels.
In response to my design scenario, I will be considering the use of circular design principles to innovate the way we design produce use and access everyday clothing items. I aim to do this through my collection by using sustainable materials and upcycling. This includes upcycling tents for their outerwear like properties and also using deadstock fabrics and sustainable trims. This further enriches my concept, positioning the collection as not only environmentally conscious through sustainable practices, but also as a contributor to individual well-being; empowering wearers with the sense that they are making a positive difference, however small, and aligning their actions with their values. My collection will be focused on outerwear/ sportswear/ athleisurewear in order to be practical when worn outdoors and will aim to help my muse transition from outerwear to athleisurewear. Inspiration for my collections silhouette, details and colour palette comes from tents, OS maps and rocks in their natural form.