Mel Hewgill is a menswear designer currently based in London, UK. Specialising in tailoring, knitwear and textiles, Hewgill pushes the boundaries of traditional menswear by embracing themes of male sensuality and femininity in her designs. She often references classical and twentieth century sculpture in her work. Hewgill was selected to be part of the University of Westminster BA Fashion catwalk show at London Fashion Week in June 2022, and to have her portfolio displayed on the British Fashion Council website. She has previous work experience at Simone Rocha and Charles Jeffrey Loverboy, as well as with knitwear designer Cecile Tulkens.
An invaluable experience assisting the small team at Loverboy with the creation of their AW21 collection 'The Gloom', and the initial design of the SS22 collection 'The Portal'. Responsible for lots of practical tasks and machine sewing, including cutting, toiling and the creation of several show pieces for the AW21 collection. Aided with research and 3D design development, through making samples and draping. Assisted at several photoshoots and a show, as well as styling and fitting sessions.
Assisted with the realisation of the SS20 collection, gaining invaluable experience working alongside an industry team in a professional design and production environment. Helped with machine sewing of toiles and show pieces, as well as cutting and finishings. Gained new skills, such as macrame and hand knitting techniques. Assisted with dressing backstage at the London Fashion Week show.
Aided the Westminster University BA student with her graduate womenswear collection. Assisted with silk screen and sublimation printing. Responsible for constructing toiles and altering flat patterns, as well as finishings on final garments.
Worked closely with the Central St. Martins BA Knitwear student in creating her graduate collection, and then her CSM MA collection. I have since assisted her during her first season as a brand. Aided with toile construction, as well as CAD including technical drawings and retouching photos. Responsible for hand finishing garments, for example by smocking, sewing on buttons and tying in ends of yarn. I gained a good understanding of the use of knit as a textile.
Shadowed a Saville Row tailor, gaining a good understanding of the garment construction process. Responsible for pad stitching, and assisted with finishing through hand stitching.