The Stress of the Rat

"The Stress of the Rat"

“The Stress of the Rat” draws its core inspiration from the relentless rhythm of the rat race—an ode to the slumped shoulders and weary postures of daily commuters navigating the urban grind. This collection captures the emotional weight and physical toll of city life through silhouettes that embody exhaustion, repetition, and quiet resilience.

Deeply personal in nature, the collection is rooted in my late father’s experience living in London during the 1990s. His passing just before the start of my final year transformed his wardrobe into a personal archive—one rich with memory, texture, and symbolism. The garments bear silent stories: pinhole scars left by badges once worn proudly and now passed down as mementoes to family. These subtle remnants became a starting point for a narrative around presence, absence, and the threads that connect generations.

Sustainability is intrinsic to the construction of this collection. The denim suit is crafted from Stellablu—an innovative material produced without water—while the majority of the pieces are constructed from deadstock and vintage fabrics, reinforcing a commitment to mindful, responsible design.

“The Stress of the Rat” is both a tribute and a protest—a meditation on grief, routine, and the personal histories woven into what we wear.