Green People: New Designer Patrick McDowell, Not a ‘One Trick Pony’

Upcycling materials is nothing new for fashion designers, but there is something to be noted about the way sustainably minded designer Patrick McDowell views (and speaks about) the industry that is fresh. The 24-year-old Central Saint Martins grad bashes the wholesale model in favor of his mental health and partners instead with the likes of Depop (running an upcycling workshop in Selfridges), Higher Studio (offering his garments for rent) and brands such as Swarovski and Burberry (upcycling materials). McDowell shares his views on wholesale, fashion shows and how he plans to grow his business and personal brand with new partnerships. WWD: Finally, this appetite for sustainability is broadening. Patrick McDowell: There’s a wider appetite for people to be nice and to work together and help each other — and the creativity actually improves that way, too. My thesis was based on creative learning and removing the idea that creative learning is about art and design but applying that thinking to any industry or any subject or any person at any age. Selfishly, it’s just more interesting that way, too. WWD: Where do you see yourself building these strategic partnerships, and how do you want to work with brands? P.M.: It’s not about working with brands that are like

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