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William James

William James

Manchester, United Kingdom
UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE University of Salford
Title of Work Of Land and Labour
SPECIALISMS Menswear,Pattern Cutting,Tailoring

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j.d.pegg@salford.ac.uk

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‘Of Land and Labour’ is a menswear collection born from a longing to return to the countryside I left behind in pursuit of a career in fashion. Growing up surrounded by rural landscapes and village life, moving away gave me a new appreciation for the slower pace and close connection to the land that had once felt ordinary. The collection reflects on that distance, exploring what it means to leave home while remaining shaped by the place you came from. Drawing inspiration from British agricultural workwear and everyday rural dress, the collection reinterprets traditional working garments through a contemporary menswear lens. Rather than romanticising rural life, it recognises the resilience and practicality that define it. Heavy fabrics, layered silhouettes, and functional details are designed to offer protection while creating a sense of comfort. The material palette is informed by the textures and muted colours of the British landscape. Throughout the collection, panels of long-pile shearling and textured faux fur become symbols of home. They soften otherwise utilitarian silhouettes, creating moments of warmth that contrast with the hard-wearing nature of workwear. More than decorative elements, these materials evoke the comfort of returning home after a day’s labour. Of Land and Labour is ultimately a reflection on identity, memory, and belonging. It explores how clothing can carry a sense of place, holding onto the landscapes and experiences that continue to shape us. Rooted in personal experience, the collection celebrates garments shaped by land, labour, and the enduring value of what is made to last.

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