About Me

In order to feel proud of what you wear you must first know where it came from, here at Monkeychoo all the items are created using as many recycled items as possible, in such a fast paced world where we can have what we want, when we want, we believe that we need to start thinking ethically and source materials from alternative suppliers. Technologically we have advanced so quickly we have lost our connection with nature and are quickly absorbing all of its assets, and so we find it vitally important to restore that link and show that in doing so we can create Beautiful authentic designs with integrity. All our designs are one off, hand sewn and made from beginning to end by the designer. We want our clientele to have a truly unique and exclusive item that they can feel dignified and rewarded wearing.

Past Tides S/S 2013


Spring/Summer 2013


Visualise - Initial moodboard







My interpretation 

      • Simplicity 
      • Essential
      • Milky
      • Textures
      • Movement
      • Invisible
      • Glazed
      • Sculptural




Luscious linens, sensuous silks, captivating cottons, organzas and chiffons make up this collection, with a harkening to the past, to link the luxurious eras of the 1900s and 50s. Decadence and Simplicity aligned with highly tailored garments produce a aura of haughtiness the feeling of standing, keeping you chin up and your back straight.






I created my own moodboard from the initial brief, the main influences I took from the first board were, the feel of motion yet structure, ripples and pleats and a sense of the sea, I created a style for the season that is in-keeping with my design signature yet different enough that it allows me to stretch my design and construction skills to achieve a truly well thought out collection.


As I have decided to use expensive fabrics this season I have also amended my customer market level appropriately, please see below.




The above profile is an indication on the customer and finish of the garments. There is to be a very high level of finish and fit.



Having done some market research I identified two style boards that I used for my design process. 







Prior to starting this collection I attended an exhibition of Cornwall's leading Textile artists,
the exhibition showcased pieces from wall hangings and mirrors to cushions and Clothing.
























This exhibition gave me lots of inspiration for style lines and general theme for me collection, the Gallery at Castle bude is a great place to keep an eye out for smaller more independent exhibitions. 


To view their upcoming events check this site.






I also Ventured to the Bath Museum of fashion and while there fell in love with Victorian fashions, the intricaty and detail is second to none, apart from being a great source for inspiration it was also a history lesson and I have benefited immensely from the visit.












Each of the dresses led me to use pleating and gathering within my designs.


Theme






This selection of images shows in brief my theme for the collection, i wanted to bring together the Victorian and 50s styles as they are already quite similar, here we see that both images have Clinched waists an emphasis on hourglass figure, Shoulders strong yet soft and are Beautifully tailored .



Concept Shapes










Market level

Karen Millen



  • pure fabrics used 
  • Base stitched  
  • Linings are Tacked securely to the seams 
  • Piping used for all visible seams 
  • Piping inserted between seam edges and lining
  • French Seamed 
  • Beautiful Top StitchingPur
  • Innovative use of beads to create a Cuff 
  • Flawless Finish











Designs




SmallSize 

Children's Evening wear - Mini me



Samples


































I have looked for boutique suppliers and   smaller more exclusive retailers when sourcing   and researching for this collection.
Wishing to support local and independent retailers, I have used haberdashers in Devon and Cornwall.


Suppliers


To visit Stone Fabrics click here 








To visit Truro fabrics click here


To visit Exeter fabric centre click here

Thanks and Keep Checking for Updates .



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