Empowering women with clothes and image
The garments I have created serve as a tribute to the women who defy societal expectations by working in traditionally male-dominated fields. These garments are crafted from robust, typically masculine fabrics such as denim, wool, and cotton drill, which are then transformed into hyper-feminine silhouettes. By utilising deadstock fabrics, including denim from Artistic Fabric Mill and Orta Denim, I aimed to promote sustainability in my collection. Incorporating masculine workwear finishes like a twin needle top stitch allowed me to convey elegance while showcasing intricate garment construction.
Drawing inspiration from the pit bonk wenches’ practice of lifting and tucking their skirts into their workwear, I employed pattern manipulation techniques to create layers and folds in the garments, successfully emulating the drape of their skirts. With the intent to capture powerful and defiant images, I collaborated with talented photographers to create visuals that parallel the historical portrait photography of the Pit Bonk Wenches in the Black Country, my home-place. In these images, the women take centre stage, breaking free from the shadows that once confined them.
Through this collection and its visual representation, my ultimate goal is to honour and empower the remarkable women who courageously challenge societal norms. I celebrate their resilience and strength in pursuing careers beyond traditional gender roles, aiming to inspire others and create a more inclusive and equal future.
“Women who work are not a degradation of femininity; they are the embodiment of strength, resilience, and limitless potential.”