Crafting clothing designed for women, by women is central to SDCA Studio’s fashion philosophy. This London Fashion Week, designer Sonia Alves presented the label’s SS27 collection REBIRTH which showcased socially conscious, sustainable practices through an array of sophisticated yet intricately frayed looks. 

Utilising materials from past collections, SDCA Studio employed a variety of circularity principles in the production of this collection. These included minimal-waste pattern cutting techniques, deadstock materials, natural textiles and piecing together scraps. 

Taking the form of a demonstration, REBIRTH’s LFW presentation fully embodied the concept by including the live creation of a dress from leftover scraps. By taking something old and beginning anew, the label actively championed and spotlighted their reuse principles on the global stage. 

Alves’ Portuguese heritage functioned as an inspiration for the collection. Namely, the country’s traditional rug-making method of using discarded materials from the textile industry. This translated into REBIRTH’s effortlessly cool elements of sculptural draping, spider-like mesh overlays and patchwork tailoring. 

Another point of reference for Alves was the historical attire of the women who crafted these rugs. A deeper exploration of traditional Portuguese costumes and motifs followed, influencing the collection’s visual language. 

Having repurposed calico scraps in their very first collection and charity-shop t-shirt strips in their second, SDCA Studio’s sustainable SS27 presentation functioned as both a clear continuation and celebration of the label’s resourceful identity. 

Images: Michael Hemy