Profile: Lalitha Alwan – Only Natural Design Competitions

Lalitha Alwan

National Institute of Fashion Technology, Chennai

B.Des Knitwear Design

I am a sustainability-focused fashion practitioner, designer and researcher. I graduated with a Distinction in the B.Des Knitwear Design at the National Institute of Fashion Technology, Chennai in 2023. I am fascinated by clothing's ability to tell stories and aim to explore how these stories can connect us to our personal fashion practices and the wider story of Fashion to foster sustainable fashion engagement. I believe we can and must collaboratively dismantle and reform our Fashion system into one built on joy, revitalisation, inclusion and care. My work exudes joy and imagination, while being underpinned by meaningful messages that challenge prevailing paradigms and engage audiences in provocative ways. I believe in the power of play and education to concurrently aid in transformed post-fashion paradigms and transformed fashion learning experiences. My designs, whether tangible fashion and textile explorations or playful fashion pedagogies, wish to provoke and inspire the wearer or player, challenging in them pre-conceived beliefs and evoke emotion when worn or played. I am currently enrolling as a Postgraduate student for MA Fashion Futures at London College of Fashion, University of the Arts London and look forward to further exploring what sustainable fashion can mean to me and the world.

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Genesis: from Earth to Garment

Category: Apparel

Competitions: Fashion

“Genesis: From Earth to Garment” signifies the culmination of a vision that embraces the unique possibilities of handspun yarns and celebrates the harmony between nature, fashion, and personal well-being. It is an invitation to embark on a journey of self-expression, luxury, and sustainability, where the beauty of jaspers intertwines with the artistry of handspinning and hand-knitting. Made with ethically sourced merino wool and mulberry silk fibers, this collection sets the stage for a new era of fashion that inspires connection, mindfulness, and a deeper appreciation for the transformative power of garments crafted with love and intention. With a curated approach and a blend of personal accents, my vision for this project is to create an effortless transition for knitters delving into the world of handspinning. By employing simple yet effective knitting techniques, the aim is to craft standout garments that are approachable and unintimidating, yet undeniably striking, offering versatility for multiple styling possibilities. Exploring diverse handspinning techniques, including blended and solid fibers of varying complexity, this collection will cater to a wide range of individuals venturing into the art of handspinning, ensuring there is something suitable and captivating for everyone.