Repurposing an engineering career to pursue a passion for fashion

His days are spent draping fabrics, screen printing, testing out new fabrication methods, researching the history of fashion and garments, and exploring ways to incorporate more sustainable materials and practices into his designs. 

His previous life as an engineering student isn’t wasted, either. According to Safwan, there’s a surprising amount of crossover between engineering and fashion design.  

“Garment construction and how fabrics sit on the body are influenced by some of the same principles as engineering, and even some of the software we use is similar,” he says.  

“I feel like a lot of my previous education experience has helped me with my current degree. There’s a connection, for sure.” 

This has combined beautifully in his area of focus: corsetry. Although we often think of this garment as something of centuries past, corsets are making a comeback – and in a big way. Many big-name designers premiered corset-heavy collections at fashion shows this past season, and the style has trickled down into every-day wear. 

Safwan is excited to put his own spin on this trend by exploring ways to incorporate more sustainable materials into this fashion staple. Something he loves is looking to the past for inspiration on how to ditch the polyester and plastic that have proliferated in today’s fast-fashion cycles.  

“I’m digging deep into corsets’ history and thinking about how I can modernise those practices and make them relevant for today’s consumers,” he says  

While his engineering skills are helping with the structural elements, Safwan is using history as inspiration for how to incorporate natural fibres and bio-degradable materials. He’s even exploring how embroidery, plant roots and bamboo can be used for the garment’s structural components.  

Contributing to a more sustainable fashion industry is crucial for Safwan. The amount of waste generated, as well as the fact much of that waste ends up in landfills in developing countries, alarms him and he wants to do everything in his power to be part of the solution. 

But he also sees his work as a chance to bring some old-fashioned appreciation back into how we consume textiles.  

“With fast-fashion, I think you lose touch with the creative process and the work that goes into designing and making garments,” he says.  

Stitch by stitch 

Although he’s only a quarter of the way through his Master of Design (Research), Safwan has had numerous opportunities to tap expert minds at UTS for help with some of the more technical elements of his work. Whether it’s discussing the properties of different pigments and dyes, trialling screen-printing techniques, designing a pattern or getting help with making a fold sit just right, he says there’s always someone willing to help.  

“It’s great that UTS gives you this opportunity as a student to speak with people who have been part of the industry for years,” he says. 

Safwan also points to the university’s Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Fashion and Textiles as a valuable resource for him and his peers who are committed to circular fashion practices.  

In the future, Safwan is excited for the chance to present his collection at UTS’s annual Fashion Show. He also plans to explore internship opportunities later this year and perhaps embed himself in a label’s design team to really hone his craft.  

But for now, he’s looking forward to more research and more experimenting in the studio.  

At UTS, Safwan repurposed his career. 

Because it’s not just a university – it’s a reawakening.  

What can we be for you?