Wrangler challenge Fashion students to design the outerwear of the future

As part of their ongoing collaboration with Wrangler, Ravensbourne’s third year BA (Hons) Fashion students were challenged by the U.S. denim manufacturer to design outdoor clothing collections, in advance of the launch of the brand’s All Terrain Gear (ATG) range this Autumn.

The new range builds on Wrangler’s heritage, targeted at those who need durable outdoor gear that is suitable for a range of activities; from hiking to mountain biking and canoeing. Students were asked to design a denim-focused ten outfit capsule of menswear or womenswear designs.

Cristiana Alagna was named winner for the contemporary expression she brought to the traditionally utilitarian aesthetic that characterises outdoor clothing. Drawing upon the fashion culture of her native Italy and the Parisian tailoring she has explored while interning at Givenchy, Cristina introduced a new approach to the vents and pleating required for outdoor wear. She was awarded £1,500 for her designs.

Nathaniel Mackie was awarded second place for his hand-stitching techniques that create the appearance of contours in denim. Third place was given to Heng ‘Seven’ Xiang. Heng juxtaposed the sheen of a silk and denim hybrid fabric with a high-visibility trim to give performance and outdoor clothing a distinctively urban look. They were both awarded £1,000 for their designs.

Commenting on her success, Cristiana said, “Working with Wrangler was a thrilling challenge. The brief was really stimulating in what it asked us to consider, meaning a combination of functionality and versatility balanced with good design and brand authenticity. I really enjoyed having the opportunity to research the brand values and customers as well as the challenge of creating something original yet comfortable and wearable.”

Steve Zades, Vice-President of Innovation at Kontoor Brands said, “We work with leading universities around the world to encourage young talent and help student innovators spark new ideas. They tell us that material science is a huge source of inspiration, indicating we can expect to see big changes in denim in the decade ahead.”