Today marks a milestone in the careers of four emerging designers as they showcase their collections for the first time at the prestigious JCA London Fashion Academy’s undergraduate show.
The event, held on the Boston Manor House campus, is a celebration of innovation, sustainability and mental health awareness in fashion.
Tayla-Lily from Tayla Press A genderless streetwear brand that explores themes of mental health through oversized silhouettes and comfort-focused designs, Press’s collection draws inspiration from Japan’s Aokigahara Forest, reflecting its eerie beauty and the poignant narratives associated with it. “Aokigahara Forest is surrounded by darkness, but I saw beauty in the forest itself. I connected with its complexity and wanted to honor it,” said Press. Her collection features unique elements like ribbon detailing and doll-inspired cutouts, all meticulously crafted using traditional Japanese ink painting methods.
REELL Written by Jazzy Newnham Offering a performance-oriented menswear collection that blends heritage fabrics, music and fishing. Newnham’s designs emphasize comfort, inclusivity and sustainability using recycled materials and Harris Tweed®. “Thinking back to nostalgic memories is something everyone can relate to. This collection means a lot to me because I’ve reinvented a family hobby, fishing, into fashion. Powered by Harris Tweed®, the collection features functional and stylish pieces such as tweed tracksuit bottoms and a poncho made from game fish.
Alandre by Andrea Berlog Offering bespoke luxury clothing and accessories, with a strong focus on authenticity, quality and ethical sustainability. Pirlog’s first collection fuses Japanese pattern-making techniques with Western tailoring, using luxurious materials such as Italian nappa leather and French silk organza. “My inaugural collection is dedicated to raising awareness about mental illness, particularly targeting individuals working in the fashion industry,” Berlaug stressed. Its collection features intricate designs and unique digital prints, curated by Pineider to enhance its line of accessories in premium leather.
Demi O’Shea by Demi Colton O’Shea Demi O’Shea is a leading brand specializing in bespoke fashion and accessories with the innovation of 3D printing. O’Shea Group puts sustainability and ethical craftsmanship first, using biodegradable materials and providing customized services. “Demi O’Shea offers ethical, bespoke fashion with the innovation of 3D printing, elevating style sustainably,” O’Shea explained. The collection blends vibrant colors with luxurious fabrics, highlighting the potential of 3D printing in creating timeless, eco-friendly fashion pieces.
Each designer brings a unique perspective to the JCA Fashion Academy show in London, highlighting the organisation’s commitment to nurturing talent and encouraging innovation. As Professor Jimmy Choo’s guidance continues to inspire these young creatives, the future of fashion looks promising, with a strong focus on sustainability, mental health awareness, and ethical practices.