Under the Sea: Joanne McGillivray unleashes oceanic collection

The latest Joanne McGillivray collection is a magical mix of blues and brights, and is inspired by the sea.

Born in Glasgow, fashion has always played an important part of McGillivray’s life. With a seamstress mother and a grandfather who would make clothes for his daughters, she was drawn into the world of fashion from a young age. Whilst she studied at university, McGillivray would spend her summer days interning at Selfridges; she also worked as an assistant for London-based fashion designer Kinder Aggugini.

After graduating from university she won the Graduate of the Year award from the Scottish Fashion Awards and was given the chance to work alongside Marks and Spencer and their design team to have one of her creations brought to life. Joanne designed a colourful dress that went on sale in May 2013 and was so popular it sold out in-store. After such success she started up her own fashion company and is now releasing her second line, Under the Sea.

This spring/summer 2014 collection is more than reminiscent of said title; the main colour is, of course, blue. It is used, however, in many different shades with a variety of textures and numerous patterns. From a turquoise and gold jacquard print on a top and jumpsuit to a deep, dark blue colour on a floaty dress, McGillivray uses the colours as well as the fabrics to create an oceanic collection. Some fabrics are soft and fluid, reminiscent of the flow of the ocean, while others are crisp and clear with bursts of orange and gold reflecting the unknown wonders you find under the sea.

In the literal sense McGillivray has also produced a see-through waterproof with orange trimmings, perfect for a trip along the coastline where the British weather is at its worst.

McGillivray will be showcasing her previous A/W collection at a pop-up shop in House of Fraser (details here), Glasgow, from 14^th until 26^th December along with another from 21^st until 24^th November within the city that will also feature work from designers such as Rebecca Torres, Bebaroque and Rosie Sugden Scottish Cashmere.

Emily-Rose Vierke

Don’t forget to check out Joanne McGillivray’s website and you can also follow her on Tumblr, Pinterest and Twitter!