Melbourne-born textile designer Amy Barrie celebrates feminism with her tailored feminine collection, that carries an even stronger message. To empower the wearer of her sleek cut collection, the Central Saint Martin’s alumna has embroidered and printed every piece with inspirational stories from extraordinary women, talk about a power suit! In between having her collection featured in the September issue of Harper’s Bazaar UK and making a new collection, the Melbourne-born designer talked us through her inspiration, her duty as a fashion designer and gives us an insight in her unique design-based story-telling.
Fashion has an extraordinary ability to empower because it is the only art form that is worn. A garment physically touches someone’s life, as well as emotionally connecting to those who witness it as art. I use this unique opportunity that fashion provides as a means of communicating and elevating female-driven narratives. The female experience is complex, detailed and multifaceted. To represent it authentically, I use a variety of techniques and embellishments. The outcome is garments that are a unique fusion of fine art, fashion and costume, which provide an empowering experience for both the wearer and viewer.
I was raised in a matriarchal family and it was instilled in me from a young age that my sex was not a barrier to what I could achieve in life. However, I was soon exposed to the inequality and sexism that is prevalent in our society. Throughout history, those who identify as women have been systematically stripped of their voice, their self-expression, and even their very presence. In my work I aim to shine a light on visionary women whose stories have been neglected or erased and, in doing so, inspire others to use their voice for change.
“In my work I aim to shine a light on visionary women whose stories have been neglected or erased and, in doing so, inspire others to use their voice for change”
My design process begins with me reflecting on the story I wish to tell. These musings inspire my textile design and garment shape. I began interpreting visual representations of narrative by studying Italian Renaissance paintings. I was enthralled by how an artist could communicate complex concepts through thoughtful composition, the use of colour, and symbolism. Similarly, I create my fabrics by layering a diverse range of textile techniques so that my fabrics convey a spectrum of meaning. The shape of my garment then becomes an extension of the story that is embodied by the textiles.
Fashion Crossover London has been an exciting experience, which has enabled my work to reach a larger audience through other forms of storytelling, such as editorial features and music videos. My dream is to open a flagship store in London and establish an atelier dedicated to specialist textile techniques. My business will perpetually strive to explore and support innovative ways to remain as ethical and sustainable as possible, with a focus on empowering women. All the world’s a stage, but I do not believe that we are merely players. Instead, we must harness our creative energy to instigate positive change.
“Fashion Crossover London has been an exciting experience, which has enabled my work to reach a larger audience through other forms of storytelling, such as editorial features and music videos”
Discover Amy Barrie's full collection
Words by Lupe Baeyens