The Oxford & Saïd Business school Project

For our competition section in Incubation we have been presented with the opportunity to Redesign the uniforms for the Oxford Saïd Business School. They asked for a fresh take on their uniforms to match the innovative concept of the school. Although we are to keep in mind the practicality and every day function of the uniforms.

I asked to see the uniforms as they were so I could understand what they were used to and what should be changed. As well as how formal and relaxed each they were.

To get an idea of what they like design wise, and hope for their uniforms to feel like, I decided to look at their website design.

After looking through the pages I noticed a theme with their quotations and underlining. The lines are very thin, fresh and minimal.

This project is a design challenge because it's a uniform for Oxford and my design style doesn't exactly scream the brief. Although due to this it became really interesting, trying to figure out how to put my style in there whilst come up with what they want.

So in the style of minimalism, renewing and injecting my energy, I thought I'd take a look at 90s minimalism.

My family owns a school that I was around a lot as a child, and watching my mum dress every morning in her outfit, it became interesting to me to what I thought was chic and what wasn't. Her staple has always been a Joseph style trouser and the dresses you see below. I wanted to focus on the 90s silhouette as its flattering and practical.

Receptionisits/ Porters

For the receptionist woman who asked for a flattering skirt, this is for you. I have designed these skirts in mind of the thin lines that will run throughout, with two pleats going down the front and back.One skirt at a longer length and the other just below the knee. the t-shirt is a very slight scoop neck and cap sleeves. For the trousers there are a pleat on each leg front and back to match the skirt. On both is are belt loops that are small so that the wearer would wear a thinner belt which goes with our theme.

Catering/ Housekeeping

To prioritise comfortability whilst sustaining a professional look, I wanted to create a low waist asymmetrical shape that covered the elastic band waist of their trousers. Moveability was priority. I then designed a strap around the waist so that they could customise the fit of the top. They colour was in all Navy Blue.

Maintenance/Grounds keepers

For the maintenance work trousers I wanted to create a new, smarter cargo. I thought that I would use the cargo fabric and keep the pockets for practical use.Whilst using the silhouette of a suit trouser. To create the Oxford Hybrid.

In terms of the outer wear, I wanted to line it with fleece that you can take out during the summer months. As well as designing a hood that was protective enough from the wind and winter elements of this country, there's nothing more annoying than a hood that isn't big enough. Adding pockets that have a reflective quality so in the evening if a car pulls in they're easily seen.

For tops I have designed a zip off centre for their top, so that they can have it up or down depending on the weather. This off the centre look creates a more established professional appearance without compromising practicality.

The colours I've chose for their uniforms is the sand colour and the ice grey.

Events

I really wanted to design a timeless dress and Blazer in Navy blue that they could accessories with their jewellery, belts, bags and shoes. It of course has two pleats running down the skirts and is just below the knee. The male would wear the reception trousers and this blazer, or whatever he liked.

I really enjoyed trying something new and because of this project want to look further into exploring menswear.