About me

After graduating from Leeds University with a BA Hons in Fashion Design in 2012 I started my career as a Buyer for a Fair Trade retailer. I gained skills in how to manage an ethical business and learnt from the suppliers, members and volunteers involved in the non-profit organisation. Alongside my work as Buyer in 2015 I created my first clothing collection in collaboration with Fair Trader and the African fabric shop. I chose African fabrics because of my own partly Nigerian heritage and interest in the batik, hand dyeing, and artisan techniques used to create stunning fabrics sustaining artisans and small family businesses. In 2020 I started to design and create in my home studio, giving all designs care and attention to make sure they are made to last. I work as sustainably as possible recycling left over materials and only sourcing materials from ethical sources. I love unique patterns and materials and find inspiration in everything from nature, artisan makers, art, technology, science and philosophy. I am keen to develop my creative practise and collaborate with disciplines in the arts, design, sustainability, science and technology to play an active role in creating a kinder, more inclusive and fairer world to live in.

QuestionsProjectsExperienceTeam

• Hello, I would be really grateful if I could get some feedback on my website. Positive and negative please. https://www.yaccabespoke.com

Projects

• 2

  Zero wasteGarments are created Zero Waste by using whole pieces of fabric or using up off cuts to create accessories. Some designs are multi-functional with detachable sleeves or the option to re-size the garment.
• Upcycling with deadstockThis project started with the materials then the designs. Deadstock materials were sourced from a local textile manufacturer who supplies the transport, office and education industry. Patchwork and craft techniques were used to make the most out of any offcuts.
• 1

  Recycled denim patchworkUsing old denim jeans with various faults, a recycled denim collection was created. Marks and stains were covered with embroidery and patch pocket details. Craft techniques were used to create unique details.

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Work history

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Product MakerAura Que
Aug 2019 - Feb 2020Huddersfield, United KingdomPart Time
Creating patterns and samples for an accessories range. Producing a range of accessories following manufacturing specs and design brief. Liaising with head designers on project management.
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BuyerFair Trader
Aug 2012 - Feb 2021Holmfirth, United KingdomFull Time
Buying ethical and fairly traded fashion, accessories, jewellery and homewares. Visual merchandising- creating engaging displays and an experiential retail environment. Working on Fair Trader own brand product development. Communicating and liaising with UK and overseas suppliers. Budget planning and sales analysis using Intelligent Retail and Excel. Creating product orders at showroom meetings and through B2B sites. Supporting members and customers. Managing own workload and jobs for volunteers and other staff members. Helping plan and set up events linked with local organisations and suppliers who support artisans and crafts people. Researching and assessing supplier’s sustainable values.

Skills

• Clothing Design
• Pattern Cutting
• Clothing Construction
• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe Photoshop
• Data Analysis
• Buying
• Retail

Education

BA(Hons) Fashion Design INDUniversity of Leeds
Sep 2008Leeds, United Kingdom
Grade 2:1. Key Modules: Garment Technology, CAD, Fashion Innovation, Research and Portfolio, , Marketing, Patterns and Culture.