Getting To Know the Maker: Claire Dunn Design

We’ve chatted to Claire Dunn about her work, inspiration and ethos as a member of our Affiliates Directory. Here, she shares a range of insights into her craft as a maker, the motivation behind her brand and how she feels we can take action against the climate crisis as fashion consumers.

SFW: Claire, can you tell us a little bit about your history as a maker?

Claire:  “When I get asked about my history as a maker, Imposter syndrome rears it's ugly head. Sewing for me was a happy accident. Whilst training as a dancer (at 19) I was given the opportunity to create costumes as part of a project. I had never sewn before. But I had always thought it would be something I would like to learn. I was shown how to use a sewing machine and basic techniques, it all just seemed to fall into place. I haven't stopped sewing since, learning along the way predominantly on my own. I didn't study fashion or have a degree in fashion or costume but have managed to carve out making a living from sewing for many years. I have worked on costumes for small theatre companies, made and sold clothing at Greenwich Market in London where I lived for 10 years. I also worked in a fabric shop where I learnt a lot about different fabrics. Since living in Devon and starting a family 22 years ago I have run my own business which has organically grown over the years as the children grew up. Taking in alterations and Dressmaking as well as running workshops and classes. But I always wanted to be more creative and make clothing from sustainable fabrics as well as tap into my love of vintage. My cape business began during lockdown. I was gifted some lengths of  vintage wool cloth that had been made in a mill in the town where I live. The mill sadly closed in the 1970’s. I loved the idea of it's history and the story behind vintage fabrics as well as the sustainability of using fabrics already in existence and now only use vintage or deadstock fabrics in my work. “

SFW: How do your creations embed sustainability? 

Claire: “The sustainability of my creations starts from source. Using only fabrics that are already in existence as much as possible, as well as being of natural fibre. As well as being from the UK to keep the carbon footprint down. It can mean it takes time to find fabrics but I really enjoy fabric hunting and get really excited about the possibilities of what I might find. Each piece is made by myself. So I know where my fabric is from, and who made the garment. I am a mini scale maker and definitely a slow fashion label.”

SFW: Who do you have in mind when designing and creating? 

Claire: “I try to keep my designs as accessible to as many people as possible. I chose the cape design with this in mind as sizing doesn't need to be an issue. I like to think people of all ages and sizes are able to wear my pieces. Allowing for individuality. Affordability is also a factor and price my garments with that in mind.”

SFW: If you had to summarise your design ethos into three words, what would they be? 

Claire: “Summarising my design ethos in 3 words is difficult but I think I would choose:

Elegant  

Practical 

Sustainable”

SFW: Finally, what do you think is the biggest action fashion consumers can take against the climate crisis? 

Claire: “I think the biggest action fashion consumers can take is to consume with a conscience! Before you buy ask yourself where was it made? Who made it? And what is it made of? Fast fashion comes at a great cost ethically and environmentally! Second hand is also a great option.”

You can learn more about Claire’s work through her listing on the Affiliates Directory and take a look at her creations currently for sale via her website here.