From Landscape to Garment: Designing the First Detta Knitwear Garment Collection

Designing a knitwear collection rarely begins with garments.

For me, the process usually begins with landscape.

Growing up between Irish and Scottish cultural influences, I have always been drawn to the coastal and rural environments that shape these regions. The colours of moss-covered stone, weathered cliffs, sea spray and peatlands form a natural palette that continually informs my thinking as a designer.

When developing ideas for Detta Knitwear, these environments act as a starting point for both colour and texture.

(c) Photo B Raeside - Ben Nevis, Scotland

Rather than working from trend forecasts, I prefer to observe how colour appears naturally in the landscape. Soft greys, deep greens, muted browns and ocean blues often emerge repeatedly. These tones translate easily into knitwear because wool absorbs colour in a rich and subtle way.

Texture is equally important. Knit structures have the ability to mirror elements of terrain — ridges, layers, density and softness. Cable stitches, ribbing and textured patterns can echo the surfaces of rock formations, grasses or coastal weather patterns.

The design process gradually moves through several stages:

Observation
Collecting visual references from landscapes, photography and textile research.

Material Exploration
Understanding how different wool yarns behave in knit structures.

Texture Development
Experimenting with stitch patterns that reflect both function and aesthetic.

Silhouette Design
Creating garments that feel timeless and comfortable rather than trend-driven.

Through this process the garments slowly begin to emerge.

The first Detta Knitwear collection, which I plan to present in Dublin in October 2026, will explore the relationship between landscape, craft and contemporary design. The aim is to create a small group of pieces that feel quietly confident — knitwear that can be layered, lived in and worn over time.

Rather than producing large seasonal ranges, the intention is to develop garments thoughtfully and gradually. Each piece should feel connected to the wider story of the brand: a design practice rooted in landscape, heritage and material understanding.

(c) Photo B Raeside

Ultimately, this approach reflects a belief that clothing can carry meaning beyond its immediate function. When materials, place and design come together, garments begin to tell a deeper story — one that connects the wearer not only to the clothes themselves, but also to the landscapes and traditions that inspired them.

For Detta Knitwear, this journey is only just beginning.