BETHANY MARTIN —ABSRD PROJECT

ABSRD is a pattern-based, relaxed lifestyle brand that values identity, connection, and longevity — all whilst loving the planet.

The 2020-21 lockdowns had an incredibly damaging impact on human interaction — particularly for ABSRD’s target audience. To combat this, Bethany wanted to create a brand that would be unapologetically loud; to encourage conversation and expression through each of our pieces.

“We love the versatility of patterns and, heavily inspired by the 90s craze Magic Eye, wanted to work upcycled variations of the trend into some of our designs to further distinguish our brand!”

We’re neurologically wired to want to connect with others, so in order for our customers to connect with us, we share every stage of our hand-printing process from idea to end product. We hope that through this process, they can go on to connect with others when they wear their ABSRD products.

“ABSRD will release themed drops periodically, with each drop shining a light on a small, relevant charity, so that we can further connect our customers with do-good causes.”

Having taken inspiration for our first drop ‘Après’ from the French Alpes, our first set of products will be released nearer the upcoming skis season, and feature vivid colours and patterns made to stand out on sweatshirts/jumpers, beanies, and stickers. The process so far has highlighted to us the faced-paced nature of a creating a brand, and just how forward-thinking you need to be. We have just started our material and printing development stage and trialled our first prototype – which has felt surreal seeing some of our plans come to life!

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DPS—SIP—EXPO—2023 // DPS self-initiated projects (SIPs) have been an opportunity for UAL LCC London DPS students to express themselves via their personal projects and wider creative endeavours over the course of their DPS year.