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The True Meaning of Bespoke Design
An in-depth insight into bespoke uniform design
Uniform, a topic that everyone has an opinion on. But do we really understand what uniform means and the impact it has? Let’s look at it from a fresh perspective.
What is uniform?
Uniform in a corporate environment
If we think of its definition it means a set of garments that represent the same institution in order to develop a solid corporate brand identity. Uniform is strongly linked not only to appearance, but also to behaviour, history and environment. Uniform has a lot of meanings and functions and is a complex subject. By understanding the corporate environment, it is clear that the purpose of the uniform is to set a professional standard and expectation, therefore a dress code.
How is dress code influencing our approach to bespoke design?
People react in various and often impassioned ways when it comes to uniform but we must understand is it is all linked to social behaviour.
This is an important factor in uniform wear. Social behaviour is the scientific approach to what and how people think, feel and behave which can be influenced by external factors (environment, clothing etc) or other people.
For this reason, time is invested in truly engaging and understanding the wearers so we can analyse the function, quality and design in order to deliver a bespoke solution.
We also analyse how colours in the brand guidelines could impact emotions. Colour proportion and harmony is highly important when designing a garment and we study in detail the meaning between different colour combinations and how they would affect the wearer (eg, a bright colour would encourage productivity as it would energise, but if the colour is too vivid it might overwhelm the wearer and create the opposite effect – feeling like they might stand out too much).
Why do we need a uniform?
There are many reasons for wearing a uniform, but I will focus on the most important one:
Unity
If we take the origins of the topic, it all started with military uniform and the purpose of it was not only easy identification and functionality of the garment, but more so being part of a united group fighting for the same cause and moving in the same direction.
At Murray, our main goal is to deliver a solution that best represents the brand whilst still maintaining function and achieving cost efficiencies.
If we all wear one uniform; how do we differentiate ourselves?
Uniform can often be associated with restriction of personal style and throughout history there has been resistance to the idea of uniform. The main reason was inability to express people’s own identity.
But are we really restricted?
Distinction/ Identity
Distinction can be created between roles through reversing colour schemes or creating designs to fit each function, depending on the requirements and budget of the project. The reason for distinction is not linked to status but for clarity of responsibilities
However, within the same role, people still have the flexibility to bring their own persona via styling or accessories (badges) or most importantly, their own personality!
Uniform DNA
A higher level of design
In my team, we very much combine all these elements and understand the substance behind the uniform in order to create a bespoke solution. A symbiosis between analysis, science, innovation, design, commercials and skills enables us to truly understand the DNA of each project. We examine in detail all these elements and, alongside a close relationship with the client, we deliver fit for purpose uniform that will help staff work smarter - taking design to a higher level.
Our focus on future development is captured in our archive of research which constantly grows. We look at both innovation and functionality as we continuously challenge what is possible in the industry through new discoveries and creative ideas.
I have always seen this industry as an opportunity to make a change, bring people together and send a message.
If you would like to know more about Murray bespoke uniform design you can contact Ana by email: Ana.Dieaconu@Murray-Uniforms.co.uk