Textile Design for Clydesdale Bank Staff Workwear

Project Overview

Clydesdale Bank commissioned a bespoke workwear collection that reflected both its Scottish heritage and contemporary identity. I was approached by global branding agency The Partners, who headhunted me for my expertise in creating distinctive, narrative-driven textile designs. Working in collaboration with Goose Design, a London-based design studio, I was tasked with developing a series of original printed textiles to complement the new staff uniforms.

Design Inspiration

The inspiration for the prints came from one of Glasgow’s most iconic landmarks — Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s Glasgow School of Art. Drawing from the building’s architectural details, I created hand-drawn motifs that captured its geometric beauty and craftsmanship. These elements were then developed into seamlessly repeating textile print patterns, combining tradition with a modern design sensibility.

The Design Process

Each pattern began as a series of detailed sketches, exploring the interplay of line and form inspired by Mackintosh’s distinctive aesthetic. Through careful digital development, these sketches evolved into refined textile designs suitable for professional wear. The resulting prints were both elegant and understated, designed to integrate harmoniously with the wider collection’s tweed and tartan fabrics.

Production & Collaboration

The printed textiles were produced at specialist mills in England, ensuring exceptional quality and durability for everyday wear. The fabrics featured across multiple elements of the uniform range, including dresses, waistcoat linings, waistcoat backs, and scarves, adding a cohesive visual story throughout the collection.

Working closely with Goose Design, I ensured that the final prints complemented the overall colour palette, textures, and tailoring of the garments. The collaboration between design, craftsmanship, and production resulted in a refined, uniquely Scottish workwear collection that celebrated both heritage and innovation.

Outcome

The finished uniforms presented Clydesdale Bank staff with a distinctive and professional identity rooted in Glasgow’s artistic and architectural legacy. The bespoke prints added depth, personality, and authenticity to the collection, embodying the brand’s commitment to quality and cultural pride.