PATCHWORK FAMILY

The project

A value-driven fashion community that connects young independent designers with a diverse network of artists. The project was born from a group of freshly graduated designers who had personally experienced the high barriers of entry in the fashion industry. Their main objective was to lower this bar for fellow young designers. In contrast to traditional fashion labels, their focus was not on hiding designers behind a brand name, but rather giving them the spotlight and recognition they truly deserved. By doing so, they sought to democratise the fashion industry and empower young creators, providing them with opportunities to showcase their talent and ideas.

Where

Berlin Fashion Week: Haus der Materialisierung; Paris Fashion Week: Various locations, including the Chanel show; Amsterdam: House of Denim in De Hallen

Amsterdam; London: Dalston Superstore, Fashion Revolution Open Studio Showroom

Target audience

Press, buyers, and general public, fashion industry professionals, fashion enthusiasts interested in sustainable and circular fashion, LGBTQ+ community

Format

Workshops and upcycling performances; Guerilla shows; Showroom and pop-up store; Performances at venues; Exhibitions and panel discussions; Collaboration with voguers and fashion houses

How did it go?

– Berlin Fashion Week: Successful workshop and upcycling performance, gained attention and secured funding for the Paris leg of the tour

– Paris Fashion Week: Collaboration with voguers, connections with magazine editors, showcased outside the Chanel show

– Amsterdam: Showroom and pop-up store attracted 600-800 visitors

– London: Performance at Dalston Superstore, participated in Fashion Revolution events, panel discussion, collaborations with filmmaker, received positive response and engagement

Learnings

Patchwork Family used their showcasing tour to build partnerships and collaborations for funding and support. They maximised opportunities for content creation and media coverage. They created authentic engagement with customers through events and digital presence. They aimed to reflect diversity and individuality in showcases, prioritising direct communication with customers and sustainability messaging. In terms of funding, Patchwork managed to create an ambitious tour around Europe by accessing financial support from the Dutch embassy. This is a model that other businesses could benefit from.

Instagram @patchworkfamily.official