The pandemic and its ensuing lockdowns proved to be a pivotal moment for the world, but perhaps more significantly, for people as individuals. As the planet effectively shut down, so too did our busy lives. Usually distracted by the never-ending rat race most of us find ourselves in, the extended home time caused a mass wave of global reflection – forcing us to assess our current path. Edwina Hagon fell into this category, with the former magazine editor launching her own fashion label, Hagon Workroom, in November 2021. Exploring traditional craft while utilising old and discarded materials, Hagon now aims to restitch the meaning of high fashion with her one-of-a-kind garments. The brand recently dropped its Spring Summer Collection 2023, creating colourful, textured and functional leisurewear that will undoubtedly feature throughout the summer’s grooviest shindigs.
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Image: Hagon Workroom
Hagon always loved fashion, but more in terms of individual style and craft rather than following runaway trends. The Sydney local had studied design in her early 20s and even ran her own clothing brand from 2008-2012. However, she followed the more conventional path: relying on seamstresses to make garments and then selling wholesale to retail stores. A decade on, her new project is substantially more intimate.
“This time around, I wanted to be completely hands-on to allow for modification and experimentation throughout the creative process,” Hagon told us. “By the time we went into lockdown last July, I’d learnt how to construct a classic button down and Cuban collar shirt, and by October, I’d made about 25 one-of-a-kind shirts.”
Image: Hagon Hagon Workroom
Edwina designed, cut, and sewn each garment in her Elizabeth Bay studio using deadstock fabric and preloved home textiles (sourced in Australia), including upholstery fabric, tablecloths, bedding, and curtains. These textiles have been reworked into entirely new garments of creating wearable collections that feel contempory and relevant.
“I wanted to make clothes again but in a more mindful and responsible way that respects the world around us and responds to the issues affecting us,” explains Hagon. “By repurposing used textiles and materials, I’m extending the lifespan of those resources and in effect diverting them from landfill.”
She adds: “I’ve also always been drawn to the texture, embellishment and durability of home textiles such as upholstery, tablecloths, beI’mng, and curtains. I’m inspired by the skill, detail and beauty of traditionally handcrafted fabrics and deeply appreciate the real and tangible links these materials provide to our ancestors and to the history of traditional craft.”
While the Cuban collar shirts are the centrepiece of the collection, there’s also an array of funky bottom items we absolutely recommend checking out. Head to the Hagon Workroom website now to pick up your favourites before they sell out.
Image: Hagon Workroom
Image: Hagon Workroom
