retailer White Stuff has launched a new womenswear collection with Glasgow
School of Art graduate Eve Campbell for autumn/winter 2019, as part of its
‘Nurtures Talent’ initiative, which highlights up-and-coming designers.
Campbell’s “bold and fresh prints” inspired by Scottish nature caught
the eye of the White Stuff design team at her Glasgow of Art graduate show
in 2018 and led to the two collaborating on a 14-piece womenswear
collection featuring a rich, tonal colour palette reminiscent of the
mosses, rocks and plants that reside in this harsh but beautiful Scottish
‘tundra’.
The collection comprises of a variety of 14 patterned and plain pieces
from dresses, skirts and trousers to jumpers, cardigans and tops, and is
available in selected stores and online at WhiteStuff.co.uk, with
highlights including an abstract graphic print knee-length dress, a
colourblock, soft and lightweight ‘Cuddle’ cardigan, and the relaxed fit
Agnes top.
Ahead of the launch, FashionUnited chatted with Eve Campbell about the
inspiration behind the collection, her favourite pieces, how she creates
her prints, as well as what she learnt from the whole design process,
seeing her prints come to live in the White Stuff collection.
Eve Campbell discusses her White Stuff collaboration with
FashionUnited
How did the collaboration with White Stuff come about?
After graduating from the Glasgow School of Art in 2018 I showcased my
prints, along with hundreds of other new textile graduates, at New
Designers in London. Whilst there, my work caught the eye of the White
Stuff design team. They are always looking to discover new designers and
celebrate the work of up-and-coming creative talent, so I was over the moon
to be spotted!
What inspired your White Stuff collection?
In my work, I try to capture the transient nature of surface and form on
the boundary between land and shore on Scotland’s West Coast. My designs,
which are created using paper stencilling and screen-printing techniques,
reflect the microcosms of colour, pattern, shape and texture to be found in
this special place.
How do you feel now the collection has launched?
I’ve loved seeing how my designs have been used to create a fashion
collection and it is a wonderful feeling to see the products launch in
White Stuff shops as well as online. It is great to see the shapes,
textures and colours that were once being created on my print table come to
life as garments for anyone to enjoy wearing.
What’s your favourite piece from the collection?
I’m a big fan of the Ida dress for its bold pattern. However, a top that
can be worn every day or dressed up is a must-have for me and the Agnes top
does just that. This print has intricate detail yet there is still a
simplicity to the pattern, which was initially created through lino
cutting, followed by overlaying larger bold shapes. I love wearing colour
and this top, with its contrasting yellow and purple tones, will help
brighten up my wardrobe this autumn/winter.
What did you learn from the collaboration?
From my time at art school I’m used to being in control of the whole
creative process – from concept design to production of the final piece.
The collaboration with White Stuff has taught me how important it is to
have trust in the collaborative process and to work with others to take
your ideas forward.
Were there any challenges?
The importance of having strong sketchbooks with an abundance of drawings
and research has been reinforced during this collaboration. This is where
all my designs start and with a jam-packed sketchbook you are more likely
to create unique and imaginative designs. Allowing ideas to flow freely
keeps you inspired and helps you move forward.
The White Stuff x Eve Campbell is available now in select stores and
online, with prices ranging from 32.50 pounds for a silk scarf to 110
pounds for a moleskin coat.
Images: courtesy of White Stuff
