Meet Gönül Yigit, Redress Design Award 2020 Menswear Finalist
Gönül Yigit
THE NETHERLANDS
Gönül Yigit’s Redress Design Award collection, Suitable, is inspired by her grandfather’s approach to clothing. “He is the perfect example for today's world, because he only has a few key pieces in his closet, which he wears regularly,” says Gönül, who is currently pursuing a BA in Fashion Design at the ArtEZ University of the Arts, Netherlands. “These pieces consist of suits, shirts and argyle sweaters. Colours are tonal, so endless combinations can be made and it all fits together beautifully. And, because he really values his clothes, they last for years. That is exactly what we need today against the current fast fashion system.”
In her collection, secondhand clothing is carefully reconstructed to create new pieces that are still recognisable, adding to history and narrative to the work. Waste material from previous projects are linked using a variety of techniques including patchwork and a needle-lace technique she learnt from her mother.
In her collection, secondhand clothing is carefully reconstructed to create new pieces that are still recognisable, adding to history and narrative to the work. Waste material from previous projects are linked using a variety of techniques including patchwork and a needle-lace technique she learnt from her mother.
“Sustainable fashion means fashion without exhausting the earth,” says Gönül. “We need a new system with balance between the environment, people and the economy. The problems in the fashion industry can no longer be ignored. As a designer I want to keep raising awareness. I want people to question values and systems. With this collection, I hope to create awareness among the consumers so that they value clothing like my grandfather does and they can build an emotional connection with their clothes and wear them for years to come. I hope to inspire more designers to make sustainable fashion,” she continues. “I want to show the joy of limiting yourself in materials, and make it somehow work.”
