‘ άρχαίος ‘ - the prevailing tradition
‘άρχαίος’ explores the timeless nature of leather through sustainable fashion and historical narrative, crafting a collection (comprising a vest, trousers, and a wrist-bag) from repurposed leather sourced from two vintage jackets.
To evoke a sense of antiquity when designing the textiles, we distressed the leather panels using various techniques, while the garments were constructed to embody an element of futurism, creating a blend of the past and the future.
Inspired by the ancient Greeks, who began using leather in clothing as early as 1200BC, this project reflects the deep-rooted history of leather craftsmanship. The name, ‘άρχαίος’, meaning ‘Ancient’, illustrates this connection, drawing on the Greeks’ legacy of skilled leather artisans who mastered the art of crafting and treating leather.
In Greek culture, leather held both practical and symbolic significance, with items like soldiers’ leather armour representing martial prowess. To capture this duality, I directed a short film featuring a Spartan on a quest to uncover a scytale - a cipher tool used in military communication. The narrative also nods to traditional leather tanning methods.
This project demonstrates the enduring relevance of leather by transforming discarded materials into contemporary garments that are rich in historical resonance.
Produced & Directed by @lewis.bm_
Textile Design @lewis.bm_@ctdesign98
Sound Design @gillieson
Filmed & Edited by @lewisholms
Modelled by @papi_moses
‘άρχαίος’ - The Development Process
This collection showcases the transformation of two vintage leather jackets into a vest, trousers, and a wrist-bag, blending the essence of antiquity with contemporary design. By distressing the leather using various techniques, we evoked a sense of timeworn history, while the construction of the garments introduces an element of modernity.
The vest, a symmetrical composition of 30 panels and 4 zips, is lined with wool and features embroidery detail. The trousers, characterized by an asymmetrical design of 50 panels and 9 zips, represent a complex interplay between past and future. The wrist-bag, crafted from leftover scraps, further emphasises the theme of sustainability and continuity, reflecting garments that are both timeless and forward-looking.
Produced & Directed by @lewis.bm_
Textile Design @lewis.bm_@ctdesign98
‘BIDEAN’ - the dark future
Drawing parallels and inspiration from the world of cyberpunk and its’ associated aesthetic, we expressed our ideas and vision through the creation of a small up-cycled tech-wear collection. In the research and development stages of the design process, we explored different methods and techniques (such as, dying, bleaching, painting and patch-working) and selected a variety of materials, to create contrasting grainy, textured, rugged effects on the garments. After constructing the garments and incorporating new functions, the final looks were presented with a bold, military and futuristic appearance.
Having been raised in Scotland and exposed to natural landscapes comprised of mountains, moorlands, coastlines, and the distinguished wilderness, one of the aims of this project was to highlight authenticity through producing functional garments for hiking and other outdoor pursuits. Thus, the collection was named ‘BIDEAN,’ a Gaelic term used to describe a mountain with a pinnacle for its summit. The main aim was to make the garments 100% sustainable. This was achieved through using recycled and scrap materials obtained from old clothes, accessories, and tents.
Filmed & edited by @lewisholms
Soundtrack by @gillieson
My 6 look concept collection created through physical 3D collage, photography and digital design. These 6 looks are made from #recycled tents, jackets, and various other outdoor and hillwalking equipment. #conceptdesign #sustainablefashion #outdoorequipment
