Fashion Student Spotlight: Ashley Morin crafts elegant lingerie for busty ladies

By Kate Schreiner 

Ashley Morin entered her post-secondary studies already holding her Associate of the Royal Conservatory of Music diploma. Her early years in music included a love of opera and Broadway productions, developing in her a deep-seated interest in costume design.

Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s upcoming fashion show won’t be the first time Morin’s designs have walked down a runway: the student designer was selected as one of 25 finalists across the country for textile giant Télio’s 2015 Canada’s Breakthrough Designers national competition.

Ginger & Flora will be unveiled at 2016 The Show: The Final Cut, presented by Tamoda Apparel Inc., on April 6 and 7 at the Imperial Vancouver (319 Main Street). Thirty-five other lines by Kwantlen Polytechnic University fashion design and technology students will also be showcased.

All five shows have now sold out. For event details, visit kpu.ca/2016fashionshow, or follow @kpu_fashion on Twitter and @kputheshow on Instagram.

Kate Schreiner: Describe your collection.

Ashley Morin: Ginger & Flora is lingerie for fuller bust sizes. The garments are delicate, luxurious, and beautifully designed. I’ve focused on exceptional fit and comfort, combining function and fashion with each stitch and seam. Every detail helps create silhouettes that complement and enhance the body.

KS: What was the inspiration behind your line?

AM: Handmade pieces of everyday luxury are the inspiration behind my line. Hand-embroidered details contrast with digitally printed textiles. Tea rose neutrals, violet, and graphite form the core colour palette.

KS: Can you tell me about your creative process?

AM: I draw inspiration from everything around me, so I love exploring new areas around the city and combing that with historical references. Music has also been a huge influence, and I listen to classical and epic film soundtracks while researching and sketching. Once I have my designs finalized, I move to the production stage of bringing my sketches to life. The highlight of my creative process is fitting the prototypes on a model and then revising the designs to suit my target market.  

KS: What have you learned at KPU?

AM: KPU has taught me to pursue all my interests and never let an opportunity pass.  

KS: What are your plans after graduation?

AM: Upon graduation I plan to begin my career in Vancouver’s design industry with a local company where I have the opportunity to travel and support international growth. Completing a master’s degree in costume design is also on the horizon.   

KS: What aspect of design are you most passionate about?

AM:  I am really passionate about the research aspect of designing. Through KPU’s extensive program, I have further refined my market research skills, and have had the chance to work closely with local industry.