Gallery: SUSTAINABLE STYLE: Quyen Do E...

For some, to be inspired by the patterns and forms that exist in nature lends itself to a desire to conserve nature’s resources. Australian-based textile and fashion designer Quyen Do is one such person, whose textile designs pull from the from the age-old pattern of tapestry but updates it so it is young and playful. Her “We {Heart} Herbs” accessories collection includes coin purses, clutches and bags made of eco friendly fabrics- all designed, printed and made by her. Delightfully colorful for an Australian spring, Quyen’s collection can add a little botanical cheer to any season’s ensemble.

In designing her own textiles, Quyen is drawn to re-creating her encounters with nature. Entitled “We {Heart} Herbs,” the collection started with some sketches inspired by parsley and coriander and then expanded with other spontaneous moments Quyen experienced outdoors. Her Aviary bag, for example, was inspired by her cat tormenting the neighbor’s birds. With a sensitive eye towards her environment, Quyen says that she also loves the “quirkiness of Australian flora” and tries to incorporate some of its imagery into her designs.

With a background in environmental design and architecture, Quyen fell in love with fashion while working in Japan. After completing an advanced degree in fashion and textiles, she says:

“I started out making hemp/silk and hemp/cotton clothing, and really wanted to challenge the “hippie” stigma that seems to follow hemp clothing and accessories. I thought, can hemp clothes be just a beautiful as any other fiber and be good for the environment?”

Since then, Quyen has been experimenting with materials such as hemp, organic cotton, bamboo and soy fibers. And with that, a collection of eco-friendly and cheerful accessories was born– a splash of color and playfulness that celebrates the small moments in nature.

+ Quyen Do’s blog