Phoebe English, a designer known for her innovative and ethical approach to fashion, finds inspiration in the power of love and resilience. In her latest collection, she explores this theme through the motif of the heart, manifesting as intricate tiers of hearts, latticed and suspended, forming entire garments. This romantic touch holds deeper meaning, reflecting the arrival of her second daughter this summer. However, English’s commitment to sustainability is just as evident. Much of the collection is crafted from repurposed silk salvaged from London bridal businesses, a testament to her zero-waste practice. Every scrap of material is utilized, echoing her dedication to minimizing waste and maximizing resources. English’s sustainable practices extend beyond fabric sourcing. Her collection features garments constructed mathematically from rectangular shapes, a process reminiscent of origami and collage. These pieces, crafted from discarded hotel bed linens, highlight her inventive techniques and commitment to repurposing. The minimal stitching employed, a result of minimizing thread and machine usage, further underscores her dedication to environmental consciousness. English’s approach to color is just as mindful. The soft yellow-to-gold hues that grace the collection are derived from Ragwort, a plant often considered a nuisance in fields. Instead of discarding it, English collaborates with a Warwickshire farm to hand-pull and process the plant into a rich, vibrant dye. The resulting spectrum of color, from intense to pale, showcases the beauty and potential of utilizing nature’s resources responsibly. This dedication to sustainability, combined with her passion for love and strength, makes Phoebe English a truly inspiring figure in the world of fashion. Her designs are not merely garments but statements of her values, a testament to her ability to transform troublesome elements into uplifting solutions. In doing so, she illuminates a path towards a more sustainable and beautiful future for fashion.
Phoebe English: A Designer Weaving Love, Sustainability, and Upcycling into Fashion
