Meg Toal

BA (Hons) Fashion Design and Technology (Menswear) 2021

I strive to push the boundaries of modern Menswear by merging traditional tailoring techniques and contemporary garments. I enjoy pushing innovative design by tuning the idea of masculinity on its head, blurring the line of gender distinction in fashion.

For me, creating garments has always been about communication and bringing to light important issues. My collection tackles the issue of negative body image in men and women and all the anxieties and stress that goes along with this. How you see yourself is an important factor that feeds into your daily life. How will I help? Just by letting people know in a positive way that they are not alone. Through distortion of silhouette and manipulation of not only fabric but traditionally masculine and strong garments. I want people to take notice through the dramatic shapes created.

MAN UP means to be strong.

Through my collection, I am letting people know it’s okay not to be...

Men and women, equally, deal with unrealistic standards shared through social media, which can become detrimental to mental health. Explored through distortion of the historically perfect male physique and satirically designing new proportions for menswear garments, I use light hearted elements to bring positive connotations to this issue. Using bold and soft colours which contradict what the typical man would wear. Drawing attention to the message behind the clothes.

With sustainability in mind, my garments are bespoke and created for consumers who will cherish and wear them many times. I love the idea of tailoring garments to specific people as it promotes a conscious way of thinking and less environmental waste.