To celebrate Sustainable Fashion Week we caught up with Manchester School of Art graduate and 2023 event finisher Jess O’Riley, who is doing amazing things in the world of slow fashion with her brand J.O.STUDIO.

Jess told us how she recycled donated finisher t-shirts as part of her graduate art project, and her inspiration to set new sustainability goals in her personal participation in sport (including her 5-a-side football team and next marathon!)

Read the good news below!

1.     Hi Jess! Tell us a little about yourself and J.O.STUDIO

“My name is Jess O’Riley, and I recently graduated with a BA in Fashion Design from Manchester School of Art. In 2023, I established J.O.STUDIO – a slow fashion brand inspired by my love of outdoor adventure: running, hiking, and cycling”.

2. How has the adidas Manchester Marathon played a role in the brand?

“The brand’s inaugural collection was my university graduate project, crafted entirely from 100% second-hand sourced textiles.

Alongside discarded festival tents I salvaged last summer, the adidas Manchester Marathon helped the project by donating leftover tops from last year’s event.

Following a research trip to the Manchester Football Museum, I used my technical understanding of sportswear and playful style to create a stylish football shirt from the tops”.

3. What was the outcome of the project?

“By repurposing the tops, I elevated the value of the material, using decorative elements such as graphics, vinyl numbers, and embroidered slogans.

The response to the shirts was fantastic. People were excited to see new life breathed into items that might otherwise have been discarded.

Also, as J.O.STUDIO is the kit sponsor for my 5-a-side football team, I’ve already committed to creating our team shirts for the next tournament!”

4. What’s next for you?

“I’m eager to continue incorporating my personal connection to sport as I grow my brand, with a focus on creating more pieces tailored for athletic use.

In 2023, I had an amazing experience taking on the marathon, which I completed in a time of 4:01:31.  I’d love to take part in the event in the next few years, wearing one of my own designs made from repurposed tops!

Thank you to the marathon team for allowing me to bring this idea to life. I hope this marks the beginning of a long and successful partnership!”

 Thank you Jess and we’re exciting to see where the future leads you in your fashion endeavours!