Meet Adora Lutu, a fashion design and textiles graduate from the University of Portsmouth. Adora’s final year project is a collection called MVMNT, a unisex sportswear offering inspired by Adora’s interest in politics. She explores knife crime, blending streetwear influences from around the world into one collection. Read more about Adora and her work below.
What is the most valuable thing you have learnt at university?
When I started university I was so worried that I wouldn't be able to keep up with my classmates as I was the only one who hadn't studied fashion or textiles after GCSEs. Now that I'm at the end of my degree I've learnt that I need to have more faith in myself and my designs - nothing is too crazy and if you can think it, you can make it. I've learnt to stop comparing myself to others as I have something unique to offer, same as my classmates.
Tell us about your current projects and work, what have you been working on?
My final collection was a mash-up between streetwear and politics. I love streetwear because of the fact that it's a style that allows every person to become a designer. Streetwear has become more political in recent years, now incorporating people's own political views or just being controversial for example in that episode of Netflix's "Next In Fashion". There's never really been any boundaries or definition for streetwear which can cause problems but can also be really interesting when you start to take a look at the different streetwear styles all over the world. During my final project, I chose to look at not only the London streetwear scenes but also Seoul (South Korea) as they also have a really big, really interesting and different streetwear style. The result being my collection: The "MVMNT".
What form does your work take?
The collection is made up of 6 outfits, 3 of which I made for my final project. Most of the garments designed were designed with the purpose of being adjustable and unisex, for example with Outfit 1 with Suit although modelled by a male still looks really nice and is still fashionable and functional on a female body. The outfits have also been designed with the purpose of being a Capsule collection so not only are they interchangeable with genders but also with outfits to keep that element of the wearer being able to still design their own outfit/style.
How have you evolved as a young creative while studying / working?
I'm more focused. While studying there were a number of obstacles I had to overcome for example financial obstacles. Being on a creative course doesn't really allow for time to do much else - there's always some project you're working on or some deadline you've got to meet but add in working part-time to that mix can distract from the time available to focus on being creative. You have to be focused on your end goal and what it is you want to achieve. Without that, it is very easy to lose sight of your goals and your visions and end up just focusing on survival.
What are the messages and themes behind your project that you want people to take away? Do explore any topics like diversity, sustainability or politics in your work?
Looks 1 and 2 display the ways in which streetwear may be more than utilitarian or oversized pieces, allowing for a more formal approach to street style. The bold prints call for each person to make a decision and stand up for what they believe in. Ignorance is no longer an option. Looks 3 and 4 demystify the obscurities that often hinder the understanding of the knife crime epidemic. Both looks offer a glimpse into the sheer number of victims the epidemic has claimed. To aid with this understanding, a more sporty/utilitarian stance has been taken with these two looks, where rip away trousers and a boiler suit can be seen. The final two looks in the collection are a beautiful combination of formal styles and utilitarian styles. The reversible half blazer is unique and stylish, hinting at the effects of fine dust and air pollution in Korea, with gas mask motifs and warning labels.
What’s an aspect of the fashion industry that you’re passionate about fixing or having a positive impact on?
I'm passionate about fixing the lack of diversity in the fashion industry not just at the top designer and brand levels but also at lower levels for example BAME students applying for fashion and/or textile courses. The year I started university I think there was only 5 of us who fit into the category of BAME in a class of like 30 which I think is just upsetting. Even when I looked at other year groups within the course this number really just appeared to be big in comparison. It does begin to make you think that maybe you got in because you needed to fill a quota rather than the fact that you're actually a capable designer. It's hard and I don't think it is any one person's fault, I think there just happens to be a higher standard expected from these kinds of students.
What is your plan for the future?
Currently, I'm working on saving up enough money to build my own home studio. It has always been my dream to be self-employed, I even took a year out to start up my own brand, which I plan to rebrand and continue to develop using the skills I've leant and the contacts I've made in my final year to help me further my improve and grow my brand. I have more focus and direction now and believe I'm more prepared to chase my dreams.