'No Fun at the Funfair' - Workwear Research

In my research so far I have been drawn to the idea of 'work wear' within the theme of 'Fairgrounds'. I like the rough 'n' ready look of the workers, and the idea of durable design and fabric use. I looked at brands like Dickie's and a vintage 70's Wrangler denim jacket for research and inspiration. I experimented with jean buttons and eyelets and hope to use these ideas in my designs. 

Drawing from back in March. Caravans & workers at Plattfields Funfair.

Wrangler denim jacket, brass button, pencil sketch. 

Introduction to denim button machine. 

Researching denim as a 'work' fabric, and pockets. 

Drawing of Dickies work jacket and high-vis vest.

Boiler suit flats.

Research into traditional workwear. Experimenting with eyelet puncher on hessian and denim. 

Research into dungarees and denim. Images from HBO show 'Carnivale'.

Research - Cullens Fun Fair, Derry, 'Not All Fun and Games'

On a recent trip back to my hometown, Derry, I was able to access a travelling funfair, ‘Cullen’s’  as it was just about to be opened. It was a great chance to see the hard work and graft that goes into making the fun fair, well, ‘fun’. I was attracted to the high-vis vests and waterproof work wear of these rough ‘n’ ready workers. I am interested in exploring this side of the fair further. Instead of going for the obvious bright lights and show costumes of the circus, perhaps I could look instead at the durable work wear of those who construct the rides and the tents.

Designer: Alan Taylor

Alan Taylor, graduate of NCAD in Dublin, was approached by Simone Rocha, with whom he worked closely for 3 years before venturing out on his own and developing his own brand. Alan Taylor now shows in the London MEN Collections, showcasing new young menswear designers pushing the boundaries within such a typically restrictive market. Taylor's work is based on creative pattern cutting, taking preconceived notions of garment construction and throwing them on their head.