At Stretchline, we’re passionate about supporting young talent and have long-standing relationships with some of the leading educational institutions in the UK. This year, we’ve onboarded our newest young designer to our in-house internship programme – giving her valuable insight into how the industry works and how she can integrate innovative narrow fabrics and yarns into her future designs.

We’re delighted to welcome Tierney Stoneman to the Stretchline family. Winner of the Rita Rydin Prize and a specialist in contour fashion, Tierney will be working with the team over the next year on developing her skills further. To welcome her, we sat down and asked her a few questions on her background, the lessons she’s learned and what the internship has meant to her so far.

What are you studying and where?

I study Contour Fashion at DeMontfort University in Leicester where I specialise in intimate apparel, swim, and sportswear design. I’ve always loved fashion and when I discovered I could study the design of lingerie, combining trends and fashion – it felt like it was meant to be!

What do you bring to the Stretchline team?

I challenge traditional ways of working and question how we can do things differently, to improve processes and initiate innovation.

What does your day-to-day look like?

Every day varies! Typically, I carry out market research and look at trends to design new elastics. Alternatively, I develop 3D trims and garments on Browzwear, for upcoming catalogues.

What is the most beneficial part of your internship?

Making connections and building relationships with people from all different parts of the world – from clients to partners.

Biggest lesson you’ve learnt so far?

The importance of a high-quality elastic – functionally and aesthetically. Working with the Stretchline team has helped me understand the importance of sustainability, which I will carry forward in my own working practices.

We’re excited to see how Tierney grows and develops as a key member of the Stretchline team over the next year. If you’re interested in finding out more about how Stretchline could work with your college or university, drop us an email.