Meet GFF Talent, Kirsten Torkoniak, a fashion graduate from University of Central Lancashire. Kirsten’s final major project is inspired by harbours in Rhodes. “I went to Rhodes in Greece at the beginning of final year and was inspired by the harbour, my collection now is based around sailboats using old sails as my dead stock fabric and the silhouettes also incorporating architectural structure to keep a contemporary design point of view.” says Kirsten. Read all about it below!
What is the most valuable thing you have learnt at university?
Cad skills- I was shown how to use Illustrator and Photoshop and was able to improve my skills on an industry placement. They have been a great way to draw my flats, line ups, fashion faces and moodboards.
What was the starting point of inspiration for your final project?
My holiday, I went to Rhodes in Greece at the beginning of final year and was inspired by the harbour, my collection now is based around sailboats using old sails as my dead stock fabric and the silhouettes also incorporating architectural structure to keep a contemporary design point of view.
What form does the final project take?
I have designed 6 outfits and will be making 4 for the show , three will be in my fabrics (sails, ripstop and waterproof nylon ) and one will be in calico as a toile.
What materials have you used and how did you source them?
I am using old unusable sails that I was able to get from eBay and then I am using ripstop and waterproof nylon fabrics that I have sourced locally from a nearby warehouse.
How has it evolved from your initial ideas and what have you learnt along the way?
I began looking at the runway however this did not allow me to be creative and design new ideas that hadn’t seen before, after this I created rectangle pieces of fabric that I stitched channels into and threaded wire , I was able to use this to work on the stand and create/ manipulate different shapes this gave me many interesting and new silhouettes/ design ideas I have then evolved these into working designs.
What are the messages and themes behind your project that you want people to take away? Do explore any topics like diversity, sustainability or politics in your work?
I have incorporated sustainability in my collection as I think this is a issue that needs to always be on a designers mind I want people to see how everything is recyclable and can be used in a innovative and inspirational way.
What’s an aspect of the fashion industry that you’re passionate about fixing or having a positive impact on?
I am inspired by the work of Christopher Raeburn and wish to be involved in making more brands follow a sustainable message rather than greenwashing, I want to be a designer that can still be creative and innovative while thinking of the damage that is being caused and working to reduce and improve.
What is your plan once you finish your BA?
I would love to come back to Manchester and work for a mens outwear brand build my confidence and knowledge in the industry and bring a new perspective to companies and design teams.