Meet Elise Sugden, the winner of the GFW21 Childrenswear Award. Her collection was inspired by the pandemic from the perspective of a child. “Over the past year, children have been isolated and away from their friends, without fully understanding why. (Leaving the reality unseen). This can lead to escapism either through playing with toys or technology,” says Elise. Read more below!

How do you feel about winning an award at GFW21?

I am so proud, humbled, and elated to have won the Childrenswear Award. I have really enjoyed the design process and getting recognition for my hard work is an incredible achievement. This will open a magnitude of opportunity within industry and provide me with a platform to share my work. After winning the award I feel even more optimistic for the future and I can’t wait to start my journey within the Fashion industry.

What is the most valuable thing you have learnt at university?

I have loved my time at studying NTU, having the tutors support has encouraged and helped me throughout my journey. It will be sad to leave however, I am prepared to finally work in industry and I’m eager to find out what the future holds for me now.

What was the starting point of inspiration for your final project?

The concept unseen realities stems from the idea that young children do not understand the reality of COVID and isolation. Over the past year, children have been isolated and away from their friends, without fully understanding why. (Leaving the reality unseen). This can lead to escapism either through playing with toys or technology. However, playing and having experiences within nature is highly important for child's developmental skills.

Due to the difficult current times, children have missed out on playing outside and connecting with nature. My collection embraces dirt and soil as inspirations as children rediscover the love for outdoor play after a period focused on sanitising. Being able to escape the current world through play and surrealist fantasy is healthy and exciting for children. Furthermore the surrealist perception between reality and fantasy creates growing interest in everyday spirituality and ecotherapy having a stronger focus on hostile and healing practises after COVID.

What form does your FMP take?

My Childrenwear project was design based that I did separately from my FMB. However, the project was aimed to design functional childrenwear clothing that brought a fresh approach to the industry.

What materials have you used and how did you source them?

If I made my collection I would use sustainable and ethically sourced fabrics. This includes; Organic cotton, natural dyes, and natural fibres.

How has it evolved from your initial ideas and what have you learnt along the way?

My project has stayed true to my initial concept, making sure children are safe and comfortable whilst wearing the garments. I have learnt about different safety features needed when designing children's clothing and how to cater my designs for a commercial brand.

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?

My main project theme is about protecting nature and observing the beauty on our doorstep. We as a collective need to take sustainability seriously in order to protect the beauty of our world and not take things for granted. Adults and children should have the opportunity to learn about, and appreciate our surroundings.