About Me
Hi, I'm Cara, a fashion design graduate from Leeds Arts University
Cara Murphy is a womenswear designer with a focus on historical references with a refined, feminine approach. Her illustration work has been recognised by the 9th FidaWorldwide Student Fashion Illustration Award, where she was both shortlisted and a commended artist.
Whilst studying fashion design, I’ve gained valuable experience through a range of opportunities. An internship at Silpa allowed me to develop my pattern cutting and garment construction skills, which directly informed the making of my graduate collection. While at Leeds Arts University, I participated in live briefs with brands such as COS and Clothsurgeon, where I was both shortlisted and highly commended. These experiences helped me refine my design process and strengthen my portfolio presentation.
INSPIRATION
An Ode to Ruby Red 25'
Cara Murphy’s 2025 Graduate Collection - An Ode to Ruby Red explores grief through Victorian mourning customs. This draws on the strict societal expectations placed upon 19th-century widows, the sentimental preservation of keepsakes like jewellery and hair, and the lasting influence of Queen Victoria’s forty years of mourning. In response to the loss of her mum, the collection includes personal elements - in which this is an ode to her.
The collection features; cotton sateen, deadstock silk organza, taffeta, crinkle viscose and lace. Matte black buttons appear throughout - an homage to the deep mourning period when widows adorned their garments with button details. The colour palette draws inspiration from the vintage tones of the Victorian era, complemented by the traditional mourning colour - black. Dusky pink adds a contemporary touch, while accents of brass gold highlights the jewellery, sourced second-hand,
MY WORK
PORTFOLIOS
DETAIL
Historical references to Victorian mourning customs
Inspired by Queen Victoria’s mourning dress and bodice, there is a focus on seam placement with shapes influenced by 19th-century widows attire, incorporating mutton sleeves, high-neck collars, and corsetry. Mourning handkerchiefs play a key role in shaping the designs, resulting in contemporary silhouettes. The lace trim along the edges of these handkerchiefs, once corrosponded of the wearer’s stage of mourning, is a prominent detail throughout the collection. Additionally, jewellery has been encased within fabric, symbolising the act of preserving memories, much like the Victorians did with possessions of the deceased. Hair has also been integrated into the collection, referencing Victorian hair flowers.
"It's about taking something classic and historical and contrasting it with something real and gritty to create something fresh" - Simone Rocha
Graduate Fashion Week in partnership with:
