"For as long as I can remember, I have combined unconventional materials. I think there’s something quite magical about turning something old into something new. With this series, I turn deadstock, discarded, and everyday objects into forward-thinking, provocative, and unapologetically bold designs. Every stitch, every embellishment, challenges how we consume, conform, and discard. By designing forward-thinking couture out of past materials, I envision a future where waste meets luxury.
I thrift for deadstock accessories, and embellish them with unconventional metalware. Materials include reusable metal straws, c1900 dessert forks, can pull tabs, toe nail clippers, snap hair clips, and embroidery needles. After taking a digital photo, I colour grade with photoshop to give it a dramatic monochrome and post-vintage look.
When I was young, my gran would always leave a biscuit tin out for me, overflowing with scrap materials to experiment with. It taught me how to create with what I had on hand. From jam jars that once stored Grandad’s favourite marmalade to ribbons that once wrapped special gifts, she is my OG eco warrior that passed down all her preloved treasures. She lines wellies with carpet to keep her warm, and hangs bread bags on the washing line - ready for her next sandwich. My creative scene is the North Laines in Brighton. It’s full of independents, vintage shops, and flea markets. It’s so easy to get lost in the Snooper’s Paradise!
My designs are going on show in London and Japan for pop up exhibitions. I also have some exciting projects in the pipeline with stylists Wilfree Vasquez Torres (@wilfreevasqueztorres), Anica Buckson (xx_anaka_xx), Censi Lucena Moyano (@censilucena), and Alice Secchi (@iamaliceice).
Jason Sandford modelled. I designed, styled, photographed, and creatively directed all the images."
@ashsandford_art
Companies
Dazed Media
- Publishing