RETROSPEK

Bel -fashionista

forget about the boring stuff, this week belfast took part in one of the most creative and exhilarating events to date, The ulster art and design festival.this 12 day creatively packed affair consisted of guest lecturers, experimental workshops, along with exhibiting the work of current and graduate students of the university of ulster, art college.  the week commenced with a fashion show exhibiting collections made and designed by ba hons fashion and textile students. below are some of my favourite pieces from the show! enjoy!!

designed by sophie webb

designed by jade roberts

designed by becky hannaway

Karen Nicol


featured guest lecturers included that of karen nicol.a women who quite remarkably dabbles in embroidery, mixed media, textiles, interior design and gallery work. based in her design studio in the heart of london she works freelance for fashion designers, galleries and interiors. with an impressive 25 years experience under her belt and clients such as chloe, givenchy and matthew williamson this woman couldn't be a bigger inspiration to me!






below are some examples of her gallery work from her 2010 "conversation pieces" exhibition located in The rebecca hassack art gallery. the exhibition consisted of her magically enchanted twist on the animal kingdom, through heavily embellished embroidery work.

                                                                

one of nicol's favourite past times includes collecting bits and bobs from car boot sales, vintage and charity shops. in a bid to clear out her studio she made a collection of unique cashmere jumpers each uniquely customised with random objects she has collected over the years. each jumper was a complete one off, selling for £70.

1950's style cardigan complete with beautiful pearl detail.

dusty blue cardigan customised with embroidered embellishment along with old school brooches. 

taupe cardigan customised with a range vintage doilies and buttons.