Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff
V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Fashion.
From Healing to High Fashion: How Shonagh Murray's Knitting Journey Led to London Fashion Week
Knitwear season may be upon us, but for Birmingham based designer Shonagh Murray, it’s a passion that lasts all year. The 26 year old made her debut at London Fashion Week (LFW) this month, showcasing her bold knitted designs in one of the world's most prominent fashion events.
Shonagh’s love for knitting started as a way to cope with physical and mental health challenges. What began as a therapeutic hobby has now transformed into a career defining moment, with her work presented as part of the Fashion Crossover's 'Ones To Watch' collection.
Crafting a Creative Outlet
Shonagh first learned to knit from her grandmother, using traditional needles and yarn. Over time, she developed her own hand knitting technique, working with a different material and embracing knitting as a "creative coping mechanism" during her battle with illness.
Facing several health conditions in her teenage years, she was unable to attend university or follow a conventional path into the fashion industry. Instead, Shonagh turned to knitting, which she found calming and therapeutic. “It was a way to pass the time, but more than that, the cyclical nature of knitting helped me mentally and physically get through that difficult period,” she says.
Although missing out on formal education in fashion made her feel like she was starting her career “on the back foot,” Shonagh now embraces the journey as part of her story. “It’s a reminder that everything happens for a reason, and to not let adversity stop you from reaching your dreams.”
Inspired by Girlhood and Nostalgia
For her LFW debut, Shonagh drew inspiration from ultra feminine aesthetics and nostalgic references from her childhood, including 1990s films like The Parent Trap and Edward Scissorhands. “It’s all about reconnecting with that inner child and rediscovering the pure happiness and freedom we had as kids,” she explains.
Her designs are described as "bold statement pieces," and she hopes her brand, Shone, will challenge traditional perceptions of knitwear. "People often think of knitwear as boring or itchy, but it can be so much more. It can be high fashion,” Shonagh says.
Using one centimeter thick, 100% plant based yarn, her unique materials not only make the designs more sustainable but also add a surreal touch to each piece.
Career Highlights and Future Ambitions
While Shonagh has already styled high profile clients, including The Vivienne from RuPaul's Drag Race, she considers her London Fashion Week showcase to be her career highlight so far. Although she was backstage during the show, she later saw the pieces in action through videos and felt proud of her achievement. “Walking out myself on the runway was nerve wracking but thrilling. As soon as it was over, I just wanted to do it again.”
Her success at LFW has inspired Shonagh to push even further. She’s now setting her sights on participating in other major fashion weeks around the globe, including Paris, Copenhagen, and New York.
Shonagh’s journey from knitting as therapy to the catwalk is a testament to the power of creativity and resilience. “It’s been a beautiful and emotional journey, and I’m just getting started,” she says.
