Fluffy striped sweater from Esprit RCA Limited Edition.

ESPRIT has announced its second collaboration with the Royal College of Art (RCA) London. Titled Esprit RCA Limited Edition (which is only available at Esprit in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur), the collection celebrates creativity and style and nods to the brand’s ongoing commitment to sustainability. The latest partnership highlights Esprit’s belief in emerging talent, combining the talents of three RCA fashion design students with the expert product knowledge of Esprit, resulting in a capsule collection for Autumn / Winter 2012.

Postgraduate design students from the renowned RCA were challenged to create an innovative collection of “must-have” garments that represent the new Esprit vision. Designers were also tasked to tap into the zeitgeist of their generation, whilst answering the question “Can fashion be sustainable?”

“The final results turned out fantastic” said Jasmin Elfving, head of design trend at Esprit in a press release. “It is essential for companies like Esprit to encourage emerging talent. It not only supports the graduates but they bring in a fresh approach to fashion and new ways of thinking that keep companies strong and up-to-date”.

Ryan Mercer, Rachael Hall and Julia Mackenroth have been selected as the three successful candidates whose creations will become real collections. Mercer’s abstract prints take inspiration from paint residue left behind in an artist’s studio, resulting in contemporary yet beautiful patterns that transform simple pieces.

“I wanted to make things that people will fall in love with and treasure,” enthused Mercer “Something that has a life beyond one or two seasons”.

The sustainable element of the brief was most celebrated by Hall. “It’s something I am really interested in,” said Hall. “As a designer, I am really conscious that there is a real throw-away aspect to clothing in most fast fashion.” She also recognised Esprit’s affiliation with Gostwyck Merino wool and incorporated the ethically produced wool into her unique knitwear pieces.

Knitwear designer Mackenroth re-worked traditional aran patterns and textures into modern hand-made knits. “I really enjoy knitting and working with my hands,” commented Macenroth on the handcrafted element of her designs.

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