Molly is a Manx designer who’s practice is underpinned by research focused on establishing traceable supply chains, with a specific emphasis on animal-derived materials like wool and leather. Molly’s design background lies in textile manipulation and print, and shaping narratives through textiles. Throughout her studies, Molly developed her leather craft and explored more progressive methods of using of sheep skin and hides in clothing.
INTERVIEW WITH MOLLY
Tell us about the inspiration behind your project.
My work involves revitalising cattle hides from regenerative farming, and attempting to restore profitability through couture craftsmanship, using experiences to convey this message through a narrative lens.
Blending traditional and contemporary craft techniques, this collection is questioning the feasibility of develop a fully traceable leather supply chain that provides the end customer with full transparency on the origins of their leather goods. By providing a ‘product passport,’ or certification that the leather has derived from regenerative farming, I could offer a new level of luxury for customers, who can be assured their product is part of a circular, socially engaged system that supports local trade and community.
How did you come to work with your chosen natural material? What do you find makes natural materials so good to use?
I am drawn to working with leather because it is one of the rare materials that grows more valuable and beautiful with time. Unlike most fabrics that deteriorate or weaken, leather seems to come to life, telling the story of its wearer and embodying its history. Each mark and crease becomes a testament to its journey, infusing it with unique character as it ages, and as it’s worn, it softens and reacts to the wearer to record their movements in a way, so the garment becomes truly personalised and unique. This timeless quality makes leather an extraordinary material to work with, and it aligns perfectly with my vision of creating garments that not only endure for generations but also gain value and meaning over time.
Please tell us how you think being a winner of this competition will impact your career as a designer.
Winning this competition provides me with a platform to showcase my research and establish meaningful connections within the industry. It opens the door to potential collaborations and new opportunities, allowing me to further develop my expertise and broaden my understanding of the field. Beyond advancing my knowledge, this achievement will help me attract a customer base for my designs, hopefully laying the foundation for a sustainable and impactful career in fashion.
What are your thoughts on natural materials & sustainability, and how do you think natural materials can adapt to a design industry increasingly focused on sustainability?
Championing natural materials is essential to improving sustainability in fashion, but as designers, we must rethink how we source and use them. I believe there is immense untapped potential within our supply chains that can be unlocked through cross-disciplinary collaboration, enabling the industry to become more resourceful. A key step is understanding the origins of our materials, as this lays the foundation for achieving a closed-loop supply chain. Such an approach not only reduces waste but also fosters a meaningful and positive impact on the communities involved.
Tell us about if/how you’d like to evolve and continue your work with natural materials in the future.
I hope to continue working with artisan leatherworkers and tanners while building strong connections with regenerative farming. Whilst raising awareness about the imbalance of value of natural materials in their raw state in the industry, my work will celebrate both craftsmanship and sustainability through a contemporary lens. Drawing inspiration from my Celtic heritage, I want my brand and design language to feel deeply rooted and authentic to my customers, fostering a genuine connection to community and a deep respect for the materials and traditions woven into the narratives.
Follow Molly on her socials:
Instagram: @mollykathryn.london
LinkedIn: @MollyKathrynLondon
