OUR STORY
A british born designer label based on individuality, style and comfort.
Just before Dirtee Laundry was born in 2014, I had almost given up on my idea of having my own fashion label. I thought I had lost my mind and that at the age of 26, was too old (I know, I know) had missed my opportunity and would therefore be destined for a career of boring mundane jobs that I did just for my monthly paycheck. Fast forward 7 years, a mixed bag of jobs and a global pandemic, and here I am feeling more energised, hopeful and determined than I have ever done before.
Whilst undertaking a degree in BA (Hons) Creative Enterprise - Fashion & Textiles, I knew I needed to come up with a business idea that could potentially be profitable and that most of all I would be passionate about. It was a few months into my graduation and final year and I didn’t have a clear idea what I wanted to do. All I knew is that I wanted to create a collection of timeless t-shirts that were comfortable and stylish yet unique. At the same time I wanted to touch upon sustainability by creating items in an environmentally and socially conscious way. I was toying with ideas of upcycling pre-loved garments that perhaps looked as though they had come to the end of their days or needed an injection of new life.
It all started with an old oversized mens t-shirt (TEE) and a mannequin. I cut the t-shirt and manipulated the fabric to create drapes and twists around the form of the mannequin.
Unique detail was then added, inspired by my long summer runs along the quayside in Newcastle upon Tyne, and my interest in anatomy. I aim to continue designing following this process to create the core of my collection, whilst continuing to produce one-off pieces that will showcase the process in which it was created. I believe everyone deserves something to wear that is theirs only and like no other. This, in turn, creates less waste as we adopt the ‘less is more’ approach and have a stronger connection to our clothing. Taking you from date to night with no change of outfit, Dirtee Laundry Is the gift that keeps on giving.
With a past of poor body image and mental health battles, I want to create clothing that makes one feel good both mentally and physically. Comfort can still be trendy. I, myself, hate clothing that grips too tight and have experienced many times before wanting to go home from an event because I felt so overwhelmed with negative thoughts about how I was dressed and how it was making me feel. In the design process I carefully source and consider fabric before anything else. The relationship between fabric and skin can have such an impact on how we feel.
When I am feeling overwhelmed, nothing helps me like running does. I feel I really get to grips with my own 'Dirtee Laundry' when I am out pounding the pavement. There truly is no feeling like it. Whenever I get the opportunity, I love to do my bit to support the charity MIND, combining my love for all things fitness, fashion and freedom. This will remain of significance to the brand.
Over the last few months I have had people congratulate me and say “Look how much you have done”, and I reply “Yes. But look how much I have left to do.”
Keep dreamin’. x
