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Interview with Toby Crispy |
Home > Designer Interviews > Toby Crispy |
Editor Frank Scott (FS) from DesignPRWire has interviewed designer Toby Crispy (TC) for A’ Design Award and Competition. You can access the full profile of Toby Crispy by clicking here.
FS: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
TC: I have a diverse background in the fashion industry, from working as a fashion editor to managing design projects for international brands, most notably as a design manager at agnès b. My transition into sustainable design began in 2013 when I realized the environmental impact of fast fashion. I wanted to find a way to combine my creative skills with a positive impact on the world. This led me to embrace upcycling and later launch FashionClinic by T in 2016, with the goal of using fashion as a tool for storytelling and social change. It wasn’t always my plan to be a designer, but my journey has allowed me to merge my passion for art and sustainability.
FS: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
TC: FashionClinic by T is my independent sustainable fashion label, founded to create meaningful, upcycled fashion that tells stories. We focus on transforming discarded textiles into wearable art, which provokes conversation about sustainability and human connections. I’ve also curated ongoing participatory art projects, like SLOW STiTCH NOMAD, which engages the community in crafting and upcycling. Our work aims to challenge the fast fashion industry and promote circular design, creating pieces that are both functional and full of personal meaning.
FS: What is "design" for you?
TC: Design, to me, is a form of storytelling. It’s about crafting experiences and objects that resonate with people on an emotional level. It’s not just about aesthetics, but about creating meaningful connections with the world and reflecting on social and environmental issues. Design should be thoughtful, responsible, and able to provoke conversation or inspire change.
FS: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
TC: I enjoy creating works that combine art, fashion, and sustainability. I’m particularly drawn to projects that involve community participation, like SLOW STiTCH NOMAD, where people contribute their own stories to the design process. I love transforming these personal contributions into something lasting, such as wearable art that symbolizes collective memories and sustainable practices.
FS: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
TC: My favorite design is definitely the SLOW STiTCH NOMAD project. It involved collecting stories from the Hong Kong community and slow-stitching them onto recycled fabrics. This project beautifully blended community involvement with upcycled fashion, turning personal narratives into wearable art. It made me reflect on how design can hold deeper cultural and emotional significance.
FS: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
TC: I have a deep affection for upcycled materials, especially textiles that have been discarded or forgotten. They carry a story of their own, which I can reinterpret and transform. As for platforms, I enjoy working with those that allow for creative collaboration, such as community workshops, where ideas and skills can be shared in real-time. Technology is helpful in making sustainable design more accessible, but I always strive to maintain a balance between digital and hands-on approaches.
FS: When do you feel the most creative?
TC: I feel the most creative when I’m surrounded by others, especially in participatory settings. The process of sharing ideas and collaborating with people from different backgrounds allows me to see things from fresh perspectives. I also feel a strong sense of creativity when I am physically working with materials—slowly stitching or upcycling, where the process itself sparks new ideas.
FS: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
TC: I always start with the narrative. I believe that every design should tell a story, whether it’s personal, cultural, or environmental. After that, I focus on the materials—ensuring they are sustainable and meaningful. The process itself is important, as it needs to reflect the values of the project, and the design should be as much about purpose as it is about aesthetics.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
TC: When I design, I often feel a deep sense of mindfulness and connection to the materials and the stories being told. It’s almost meditative in nature. There’s a sense of responsibility, knowing that my work can inspire others to think more sustainably and be more mindful about the fashion they consume.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
TC: When my designs come to life, I feel a profound sense of fulfillment and pride, especially when the project involves collaboration. There’s a deep satisfaction in seeing how something that began as an idea or a vision has been brought to life, particularly when it has a positive impact on both people and the environment.
FS: What makes a design successful?
TC: A design is successful when it resonates emotionally with its audience, serves its intended purpose, and creates a positive impact. In sustainable design, success also involves being environmentally responsible—using materials that are upcycled or sourced ethically—and promoting social change.
FS: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
TC: The first thing I consider is the narrative or message behind the design. Does it have a clear purpose? After that, I look at the materials used—how sustainable are they? Finally, I evaluate the overall craftsmanship and whether the design serves its functional or artistic goal effectively.
FS: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
TC: Designers have a responsibility to create with sustainability in mind. This means considering the impact of materials, the production process, and the product’s life cycle. Designers should also use their platform to raise awareness about social and environmental issues, such as fast fashion, and push for more responsible practices.
FS: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
TC: The design field is increasingly focused on sustainability and social impact. More designers are considering the full life cycle of their products, and there’s a growing movement towards circular design, where materials are reused or repurposed. The future of design lies in innovation—finding creative ways to tackle global challenges while creating functional, beautiful works that make a positive impact on the world.
FS: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
TC: My last exhibition was the DRESS iN TiME exhibition, held at Oi! Warehouse in Hong Kong from September 2023 to January 2024. It featured wearable art created from upcycled materials and community stories. I plan to hold my next exhibition once I’ve completed a few more community-driven projects—perhaps in another culturally rich location where storytelling through design can continue.
FS: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
TC: My inspiration comes from the people around me—particularly through storytelling. I find that personal experiences and community histories offer endless sources of inspiration. I also draw from nature, other cultures, and the rich heritage of textiles and craftsmanship. Traveling and working closely with others in workshops keeps my creativity flowing.
FS: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
TC: My design style is a fusion of sustainability and art, with an emphasis on upcycled materials and participatory design. I aim to create pieces that tell a story and connect people with the past and present. The main characteristics of my style include the use of recycled fabrics, slow-stitching techniques, and a deep respect for history and cultural narratives.
FS: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
TC: I live in Hong Kong, a city rich in cultural heritage, which profoundly influences my designs. The blending of traditional and modern elements in Hong Kong's architecture and daily life informs much of my creative process. The advantages of living here include the access to diverse materials, rich local stories, and a vibrant art community. However, the fast-paced nature of urban life and the overwhelming influence of global fashion trends can sometimes make it challenging to maintain a focus on sustainability.
FS: How do you work with companies?
TC: I work with companies by collaborating on projects that align with my values of sustainability and storytelling. I engage in open communication, illustrating the meainng and possibility of upcycling together. It’s important to me that any partnership has a shared commitment to social responsibility and environmental impact.
FS: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
TC: My advice to companies is to select designers whose values align with theirs. It’s important that both the company and the designer share a vision for the project. When choosing a designer, look for someone who not only has the technical skills but also a passion for the concept behind the design. Communication and trust are essential for a successful collaboration, so ensure that the designer understands the company's mission and is committed to the process.
FS: Can you talk a little about your design process?
TC: My design process begins with research and storytelling. I always start by gathering insights—whether through community workshops, historical research, or personal experiences. Once I have a clear narrative, circular material is the must, I then sketch the design, incorporating upcycled textiles, and work with collaborators, such as seamstresses, to bring the design to life. I often incorporate participatory elements, allowing the community to contribute, which gives the design deeper meaning.
FS: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
TC: - My hand-stitched clothing made from upcycled fabrics. - Vintage furniture that has been repurposed or restored. - Art pieces that reflect community stories, much like my own projects. - Sustainable home accessories, such as handmade rugs from recycled textiles. - A collection of old photographs and stories that continue to inspire my work.
FS: Can you describe a day in your life?
TC: Mornings are often spent meeting with collaborators or visiting material suppliers. I try to carve out time for reflection, whether through journaling or exploring new ideas. Afternoons working on my upcycling design projects or teaching slow-stitching techniques to participants in the workshops. Evenings are sometimes reserved for researching sustainable fashion trends or engaging with my online community.
FS: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
TC: My advice to young designers is to stay true to your values and passions. Design is about storytelling, so focus on creating pieces that are meaningful, not just trendy. Embrace sustainable practices from the start, even if it feels like a challenge. Lastly, collaborate with others and never stop learning—every project is an opportunity to grow.
FS: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
TC: The positives of being a designer include the ability to create impactful work, tell stories through design, and continuously explore new creative avenues. There’s also the satisfaction of knowing your work contributes to positive change. However, the challenges include the pressure to meet deadlines, the constant need for innovation, and the difficulties of balancing creativity with the realities of running a business. Additionally, working within a fast-paced industry can sometimes lead to burnout if not managed properly.
FS: What is your "golden rule" in design?
TC: My golden rule in design is: "Design with purpose." Every piece I create must serve a meaningful function, whether it’s telling a story, solving a problem, or raising awareness about an issue. If it doesn't contribute to something greater than just aesthetics, then it’s not worth creating.
FS: What skills are most important for a designer?
TC: The most important skills for a designer include creativity, problem-solving, and the ability to empathize with others. A designer must also be technically proficient, whether that’s with materials, tools, or software. However, the ability to understand and address the social and environmental implications of design is equally important, especially in today’s climate.
FS: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
TC: My toolbox includes both physical and digital tools. On the physical side, I have a variety of sewing tools, embroidery hoops, and fabric swatches. For digital design, I use software like Adobe Illustrator for sketching and pattern design, and I frequently browse sustainability-focused platforms for inspiration. Books on textile history, slow fashion, and sustainable practices are also a key part of my research process. Additionally, the stories shared by community members are my most treasured source of inspiration.
FS: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
TC: I manage my time by breaking projects into smaller tasks and setting realistic deadlines. I prioritize based on the complexity of the project and the stage it’s at—whether it’s research, design, or production. I also make sure to allow time for reflection and inspiration, which are essential parts of the creative process.
FS: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
TC: The time it takes to design an object can vary widely, depending on the complexity of the project. For example, in my SLOW STiTCH NOMAD project, the process of collecting stories, teaching the workshops, and transforming the materials took several months. Typically, a design takes anywhere from a few weeks to several months from concept to completion, especially when it involves community collaboration and upcycling.
FS: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
TC: The most common question I get is, "How can we make our designs more sustainable?" This question comes from both brands and individuals looking to reduce their environmental impact, and I’m always happy to share my insights into sustainable design practices.
FS: What was your most important job experience?
TC: My most important job experience were definitely for FashionClinic by T and SLOW STiTCH NOMAD, where I had the opportunity to merge my creative skills with my growing passion for sustainability. It was a turning point in my career, as it allowed me to work on high-profile projects while integrating sustainable principles into the fashion world.
FS: Who are some of your clients?
TC: I collaborate with a wide range of clients from individuals to corporate like Standard Chartered Bank and DBS, fashion brands like Weekend Max Mara, Patagonia and New Balance, lifestyle brands like Aesop, Art institutes like Oil Street Art Space, Hong Kong Design Centre, M+ Museum Shop, academies like School of Design of Hong Kong Polytechnic Universtiry and Central St. Martin - University of Arts London...etc.
FS: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
TC: I enjoy designing wearable art and participatory projects the most. The process of co-creating with people from different backgrounds allows for fresh perspectives and creates work that holds personal and cultural meaning. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how design can connect people to each other and to their environment.
FS: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
TC: In the future, I plan to continue expanding my work in sustainable fashion, focusing on more community-driven projects and exhibitions. I also hope to collaborate with other designers and organizations to promote upcycling and circular fashion on a larger scale. My next goal is to create a traveling exhibition that can raise awareness of sustainable fashion practices worldwide.
FS: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
TC: While I often work independently on the conceptual side of my designs, I believe that collaboration is key to bringing ideas to life. I regularly work with seamstresses, artists, and community members to bring my designs into reality, and I enjoy collaborating with others who share my vision for sustainability.
FS: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
TC: Yes, I am currently working on a new upcycled fashion collection that incorporates elements of community storytelling. It will be a continuation of the SLOW STiTCH NOMAD project, with new narratives and materials in Hong Kong and abroad, like Japan and the UK. The collection will focus on further exploring how personal histories can be embodied in fashion.
FS: How can people contact you?
TC: Website: www.tobycrispy.com Email: hello@tobycrispy.com Facebook: FashionClinic by TobyCrispy Instagram: fashionclinic_by_t and slow.stitch.nomad
FS: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
TC: I would like to emphasize how important it is for designers to not only create aesthetically pleasing work but also to consider the broader impact of their designs. Sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessity for the future of design. I encourage both emerging and established designers to think critically about the environment and social responsibility in their work.
FS: Thank you for providing us with this opportunity to interview you.
A’ Design Award and Competitions grants rights to press members and bloggers to use parts of this interview. This interview is provided as it is; DesignPRWire and A' Design Award and Competitions cannot be held responsible for the answers given by participating designers.
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