Introduction
- Brief introduction of myself and my passion for combining artistry, design, and the outdoors.
- Master’s Degree in Performance Sportswear Design and how it has shaped your career.
Early Inspirations and Passion for Design
Growing up in Scotland’s Mountains, I was surrounded by the rugged beauty of nature. From an early age, my family, particularly my grandfather, mother, and father, instilled in me a deep love for the outdoors. Our family farm in the Cairngorms was the backdrop for countless adventures, from pulling us through hedges to climbing hills and fording fast-flowing rivers in all weather conditions. These experiences were not just about the thrill of the outdoors but also about fostering a sense of resilience and creativity.
As a child, I found excitement in every climb, every hill, and every crab apple picked. My passion for the outdoors was further fueled by my time with the Army in the Scottish Borders 252 Battalion (K.O.S.B), where I trained for the military competition Swiss Raid Commando. This competition, involving elite forces from around the world, honed my skills and deepened my commitment to outdoor pursuits.
My journey into the world of design began with a clear vision: to merge my love for the outdoors with my passion for artistry. This led me to pursue a Masters in Performance Sportswear Design, where I joined a group of like-minded, rebellious designers. Together, we pushed the boundaries of what was possible in sportswear design, always striving for innovation and sustainability.
Key Milestones in Your Career
Rab Latok Alpine Jacket
One of the pivotal moments in my career was the design of the Rab Latok Alpine Jacket. This project was a significant challenge as it required integrating advanced technology with a design that accommodated climbers’ functions and movements on the mountain. Through extensive research and collaboration with climbers, I was able to create a jacket that not only met but exceeded the demands of alpine conditions.
England World Cup Kit for Umbro
Another notable milestone was my role as a senior designer at Umbro, where I was responsible for the England World Cup Kit for South Africa. My deep understanding of outdoor fabrications played a crucial role in realizing a team kit that could withstand the heat of the South African climate. This project showcased my ability to blend functionality with style, ensuring optimal performance for the athletes.
Rab One-Piece Suit for Everest
Working on the Rab one-piece suit for Everest high-altitude ascents was a unique and rewarding experience. Collaborating with Rab Carrington, the founder of Rab, I applied my technical design skills to his vast knowledge of mountaineering. Together, we created a suit that was ideal for high altitude and polar exploration, combining durability, insulation, and flexibility.
Atlas Sleeping Bag Design
Venturing into the design of the Atlas sleeping bag introduced me to a new discipline. This project was a study in how to conserve heat effectively, requiring an in-depth understanding of thermal properties and material science. The result was a sleeping bag that provided exceptional warmth and comfort, setting a new standard in outdoor sleeping gear.
Founding ‘Dannah’ – Innovating Waterproof Jackets
In my quest to push the boundaries of technical sportswear, I founded my own brand, ‘Dannah.’ My goal was to elevate the waterproof jacket to new levels of technicality and create a shape that truly moved with the body. One of the key innovations was refining the hood shape to achieve simplicity in functionality while maintaining a refined aesthetic. This endeavor proved to be challenging yet immensely rewarding, as it required a deep understanding of both design and functional requirements. ‘Dannah’ stands as a testament to my commitment to innovation and excellence in outdoor apparel.
Core Skills and Expertise
- Full Collection Design
- Design Analysis and Review
- Market Analysis
- Colour Direction
- Fabric and Trim Sourcing
- Fittings and Fit Meetings
- Sample Reviews and Reports
- Textile Design and sourcing
- Liaising with Factories and Suppliers
- Instructing Pattern Cutters
- Mood Boards
- Design Consultation
- Tech Pack Design
- Technical Drawings and Illustrations
My expertise in garment construction, particularly for mountaineering and environments requiring maximum movement and protection, sets me apart in the industry. I am proficient in the details of designing functional, high-performance clothing that meets the rigorous demands of outdoor enthusiasts.
Why Clients Should Choose You
Clients should choose me because I have a proven track record of producing results. My ability to communicate effectively with factories, source the right materials, and manage projects efficiently ensures that every design meets the highest standards of quality and performance. My dedication to innovation and my passion for the outdoors drive me to create exceptional designs that enhance the user experience.
Conclusion
Combining my love for design and the outdoors has been a lifelong journey. I invite potential clients to reach out for bespoke design solutions tailored to their specific needs, leveraging my extensive experience and expertise to bring their visions to life.
Core Skills and Expertise
My career in the design industry has equipped me with a diverse set of skills that span various aspects of garment and product development. Here’s a detailed look at my core competencies:
Full Collection Design
I excel in conceptualizing and designing complete collections. This involves understanding market trends, setting a cohesive theme, and ensuring each piece complements the others while maintaining individual functionality and appeal.
Design Analysis and Review
I possess a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of design principles. This enables me to critically analyze and review designs to ensure they meet both aesthetic and functional requirements. My experience allows me to identify potential improvements and implement them effectively.
Market Analysis
Staying ahead of trends is crucial in the fashion and outdoor gear industry. I conduct thorough market analysis to understand consumer needs, preferences, and emerging trends. This insight guides my design decisions and helps in creating products that resonate with the target audience.
Colour Direction
Choosing the right color palette is essential in design. I specialize in setting color directions that enhance the visual appeal of the collection while staying true to the brand’s identity. My decisions are backed by trend forecasts and a deep understanding of color psychology.
Fabric and Trim Sourcing
The choice of materials can make or break a design. I have extensive experience in sourcing high-quality fabrics and trims that meet the functional requirements of the product while adhering to budget constraints. My network of suppliers ensures that I have access to the best materials available.
Fittings and Fit Meetings
Ensuring the perfect fit is a critical aspect of garment design. I lead fittings and fit meetings, collaborating with pattern cutters and models to fine-tune the fit. My goal is to achieve comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal in every piece.
Sample Reviews
Reviewing samples is a crucial step before final production. I meticulously examine samples to ensure they meet the design specifications, quality standards, and functional requirements. Any necessary adjustments are made promptly to maintain the integrity of the design.
Textile Design
My expertise in textile design allows me to create custom fabrics that enhance the performance and aesthetics of the final product. This includes designing patterns, textures, and prints that align with the overall theme of the collection.
Liaising with Factories and Suppliers
Effective communication with factories and suppliers is vital for smooth production processes. I have a proven track record of building strong relationships with these stakeholders, ensuring timely delivery and high-quality output.
Instructing Pattern Cutters
Pattern cutting is an art that requires precision and expertise. I provide clear instructions to pattern cutters, ensuring that the designs are translated accurately from concept to final product. This includes detailed technical drawings and specifications.
Mood Boards
Creating mood boards is an integral part of my design process. They help in visualizing the theme, color palette, and overall aesthetic of the collection. Mood boards serve as a guide throughout the design and development stages.
Design Consultation
I offer design consultation services, helping brands and designers refine their ideas and bring them to life. My consultation covers all aspects of design, from initial concept to final production, ensuring a cohesive and market-ready product.
Tech Pack Design
Tech packs are essential for communicating design specifications to manufacturers. I specialize in creating detailed tech packs that include all necessary information, such as measurements, materials, construction details, and quality standards.
Technical Drawings and Illustrations
My proficiency in technical drawings and illustrations ensures that every design is clearly communicated to all stakeholders. These drawings are precise and detailed, providing a clear blueprint for production.
Why Choose Me?
My extensive experience and proven track record in the design industry make me an ideal choice for clients seeking innovative and high-quality design solutions. I am adept at managing all stages of the design process, from concept to final product, and I excel in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing designs. My ability to communicate effectively with factories and suppliers ensures smooth production processes and timely delivery of products. By choosing me, clients can be confident in achieving the best results with optimal use of time and resources.
Driving the possibility that technical, ethical product can be beautiful, exciting.
OUR WORK
CONTACT US
We offer services from idea to product launch or end-to-end solutions
OUR CLIENTS
Mullion/ Regatta / Craghoppers / Sprayway / Ministry of Defence / Mountain Equipment / Rab / Outdoor Designs / Umbro / Montane / Karrimor /Peak Performance / Mountain Rescue England & Wales / Rohan / Fat Face / Bourn Fishing / Driology Fishing / Whitehill Hunting / Go Outdoors