he Bastard’s Ascension is a menswear product range centred around the armour design elements of 14th century Holy Roman Empire, combined with 20th century American workwear. The project explores how the visual language of knightly armour can be translated into contemporary clothing through the garments I am most drawn to and wear most often, my own armour. Within the context of the product range, the “bastard” represents an individual who earns their place through dedication, skill, and hard work rather than inheritance or privilege. In many ways, it reflects my own journey as a designer, building confidence, knowledge, and identity through the process of making.