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.