The trail-blazing graduate’s innovative exploration into biomaterials is at the cutting edge of renewable, sustainable fashion. And what’s more, her designs are stunning to look at, too!
It’s no secret that the textiles industry is a big polluter and for young designers starting out, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword, for some it’s non-negotiable. Birmingham City University (BCU) Fashion Design graduate, Megan Ginn is a great example of that.
The focus on sustainability and biomaterials at her interview with BCU lecturers is one of the reasons Megan chose to study in Birmingham – a focus she didn’t feel was prominent at other universities she visited. Megan’s mission is to design conscious fashion pieces that focus on custom made biomaterials, reducing the need for fossil fuel derived synthetics.
For instance, Megan has developed an algae-based biomaterial that acts as a bonding agent for wool and fabric. While there are clear environmental advantages over synthetic adhesive, it has functional pluses too. It can be reheated and reshaped allowing for garments to adapt over time encouraging longevity and durability.
CULTURAL HERITAGE
As well as the clear focus on renewable, sustainable fashion, Megan’s designs are stunning. She combines her Celtic cultural heritage using traditional knitwear techniques with her cutting-edge biomaterial honouring tradition while successfully meeting today’s environmental challenges.
Her designs were part of the BCU Presents: 1000 Threads fashion show, which is a fresh take on what used to be BCU’s graduate fashion week. Megan says: “Lecturers felt there’d be more opportunity for students at a larger event with a bigger profile.”
Oozells Square in Brindleyplace provided the perfect open-air backdrop for an event that incorporated 10 talented students from a variety of disciplines including textiles, jewellery and fashion with industry contacts, press and supporters of the university watching on. An after-party with a live DJ set from Pussycat Dolls’ Kimberley Wyatt was a bonus.
NEXT GENERATION
At the event Megan received a design excellence award from designer, Phoebe English. Phoebe is one of Megan’s inspirations, so it felt extra special. Another of Megan’s inspirations is Alice Potts who creates crystals out of human sweat among other things and has collaborated with the likes of Gucci. While collecting sweat doesn’t sound appealing, the results are mind-blowing with the jewel-like crystals adorning caps and shoes.
Studying in Birmingham was a positive experience which Megan says she found supportive and open-minded with a real sense of community. She’s moving back to her hometown of Northampton to find her graduate feet and expects life will be one of job applications and networking for the foreseeable future. With a portfolio of work that’s brimming with innovation, talent and authenticity we don’t think she’ll be job-hunting for long.