Pioneering Sustainability and Finding Inspiration in the Urban

Image courtesy of Jamie Bubb.

Could you share a little about your background and current work?

I’m a sustainable fashion stylist pursuing a lifelong passion for artisanal craftsmanship that’s made to last. After living in London for many years—working in fashion, grassroots film, music and media—I returned to my native Yorkshire and set up a boutique archive and collectibles brand project, True-Street Curators.

True-Street Curators is a fun and collaborative way to encourage creativity in keeping our garments in circulation longer and reimagining them with customizations. I aim to approach design through a lens of longevity and sustainability.

What made you choose Vogue College of Fashion for your studies?

I’ve been a reader of Vogue since the age of ten! I used to thumb through copies of it at my local library, and it always captured my attention and respect as a beautiful and thoughtful analysis of the zeitgeist.

Vogue’s editorial on sustainability, pioneered today by journalists like Emily Chan, is balanced and well-researched. I reference the magazine constantly within my world of archive pieces. I was eager to explore creative direction at Vogue College alongside esteemed professionals from Vogue and other leading brands.

Which course did you enroll in and why?

I enrolled in Vogue’s 5 Days of Creative Direction. This course provided an environment for me to debut as a reemerging creative.

Inspired by my diverse and talented cohort, I felt empowered to bring my perspective to briefs and projects. I was able to unveil my love for sustainable fashion and share my experiences.

With sharp technical ability honed across communication and art practices, our instructors showed us how to understand a brand through its unique lens, language and cultural story.

Describe your favorite day of the program. Where did you go, who did you meet?

I enjoyed the field trip to Harvey Nichols. I had briefly worked at the store in the ’90s, and so it was amazing to take a closer look at the merchandising by the company’s current Creative Director, Kate Phelan, who is also contributing editor at British Vogue.

Seeing real-life applications of the craft of styling and merchandising was enlightening. It was special to view signature pieces of visual identity that could only have emanated from the art of a seasoned expert like Phelan.

What was your day-to-day experience like?

Energizing is a word that I would use to summarize most days. It was fabulous for me to experience London again—I miss calling the city my home! The enthusiasm we all felt in this vibrant environment spilled out into all the sessions. Being surrounded by people from all corners of the globe and other great cities allowed a certain synergy to thrive.

How has the program contributed to your growth, either professionally or academically?

This course was a precious resource that’s fuelled my appetite for continuing my sustainable fashion and lifestyle journey. It delivered on all counts, and I have already incorporated my learnings into forthcoming collaborations and projects. Since the course, I’ve aimed to lead with intention, planning more circular design shoots with musicians and artists to be as inclusive with my castings as possible.