Graduate Profile: Yasmine Wymer, BA (Hons) Textiles- Norwich University College of the Arts

3 days, 8 hours ago

Profile Information

Yasmine is currently studying a BA (hons) degree in textiles. Her work combines a strong technical approach to the specialism of weaving with the exploration of surface pattern, colour, structure and materials. Using a combination of unusual and exciting techniques she creates unique fabrics perfect for the fashion application. Menswear is where her true interest lies. She is hugely influenced by the unnoticed details linked with military objects and uniforms, and is enthused by the links to true British heritage.

 

What was the inspiration behind your final collection / project?

In terms of pattern the primary inspiration comes from military uniform details and to push the designs of the fabric into having a more innovative approach I base a lot of my yarn inspiration on military aircrafts and the way that they are composed of mixed surfaces such as matt and shiny, transparent and opaque. I am focused on taking traditional elements in design such as the pinstripe and basic twills and pushing it in new directions. This collection is much focused on menswear, and creating beautiful woven fabrics for this application. I add subtle twists to the cloth by using a mix of nylon monofilament, retro reflective yarn, silk and stainless steel and antara (a leatherette style yarn).

Describe the key features of your collection / project?

I have a modern100% high fashion approach to a traditional craft. My project is all about challenging the way people view weaving and my aim is create fabrics with the use of innovative fibres to create beautiful and unique qualities. This collection is for the menswear application and I am focused on subtle details that make the fabric different yet very wearable and saleable. Colour and composition is also very important to me and it is what I believe makes the collection gel together. The use of unusual yarns is something that I would also like to reiterate as an important factor of the project.

Have you completed any work experience or industry collaborations?

I have completed a two week placement at David Walter silk weaving mill, which enabled me to really get to grips with the mass production of fabric and the design service that they give.

I am currently embarking on collaboration with knitwear designer Brooke Roberts, in which she is going to incorporate some of my weaving into her spring / summer 2012 collection. This is a fantastic opportunity for me to work with an amazing designer and I am thoroughly excited about it. It will be most rewarding to gain some insightful experience within the fashion industry, and build up my professional portfolio at the same time making those all important connections.

What are your short or long-term career aspirations?

It would be great to work freelance for a year or two working on collaborative projects with other designers, creating a name for myself as a brand and gaining experience in the fashion industry. I would also love to do some styling as well as primarily working as a woven textile designer. I fully intend to apply for an MA to further my practice and refine and develop my weaving skills, to properly enable me to fully immerse myself within the fashion industry.

Do you have any words of wisdom that you could pass on to 1st or 2nd year students?

Work hard aim high and never take your eyes off the prize.

Never give up and believe in yourself and the work you create.

And train yourself not to sleep because you can always do that little bit more work!

Quickfire Questions:

When were you happiest?

When weaving

What is your most treasured possession?

My embroidery scissors

Last exhibition / event that you went to see?

Yohji yamammoto at the V&A

What would your superpower be?

To be able to thread a loom in less than a minute

3 words that describe yourself?

Ambitious, Perfectionist, fighter

Who would you most like to meet?

Christopher Bailey

Most inspirational person you have met?

Sarah Angold

How would you save the planet?

Turn everyone vegan

What inspires you the most?

Successful independent designers

What is your biggest hope for the future?

To be successful

Your favourite book

Sense and sensibility

Your favourite film

Atonement

Your favourite location

New York

Your favourite label

Burberry

Your favourite style icon

Alexa Chung

 

Originally posted here:
Graduate Profile: Yasmine Wymer, BA (Hons) Textiles- Norwich University College of the Arts