Fashion Design School of Design
Jennifer Downes
Works
TRUE BLUE
Rooted in the personal narrative of my dad’s formative years in 1970s and 80s Liverpool, my final collection serves as an homage to his youth amidst the backdrop of a city dealing with significant economic decline, social unrest and fuelled by the defiant ethos of anti-thatcher sentiment. Infused with nostalgic echoes of a bygone era, my designs weave together the eclectic tapestry of his youth – from his years at Paddington Comprehensive school, to his love of football culture and music. My collection pays tribute to the indomitable spirit of a community united in defiance, offering a contemporary reinterpretation that intertwines heritage with modernity, capturing the essence of resilience, camaraderie, and the enduring quest for authenticity.