Student's mood boards inspired by the Arts & Crafts brief

The Brief: Arts & Crafts with a twist

The Arts & Crafts movement was one of the most far-reaching and influential design movements of modern times. The movement promoted social values and community practice. Its goal was to create affordable, handmade goods that reflected the imagination and individuality of the maker. Its design principles included:

• Using simple forms
• Taking nature as a source of pattern
• Preserving and emphasising the natural qualities of materials

There are lots of similarities between now and then. The 2009 recession is already having a noticeable effect on fashion trends, with designers moving away from over the top style in favour of simple, handcrafted design.

Students have been asked to explore both the principles and design of the Arts & Crafts movement to inspire their toile designs. To give their research a contemporary twist, the young designers have also been asked to design their garments for a ‘musical muse’ (singer/band) of their choice.

"FF2 in Action" - Garment Construction

FF2 in Action

The practical workshops will cover everything from figure drawing, print and fashion illustration to draping, pattern cutting and sewing, and will culminate in an exhibition of all students’ work at Rich Mix, on 14th May 2009.

Keep track of the aspiring young designers week by week on our “FF2 in Action” pages, where you can also download the FAD Fashion Futures newsletter.