The uniform of course needed to be sustainable,comfortable and practical but also needed to suit the purpose and ethos of RMG with their focus on artistic, industrial, maritime and scientific history.
The collection features a workwear jacket, a sou’wester parka, three knitwear options, two shirts and seasonal accessories. The classic French Workwear jacket is made by Vetra, the original makers of the jacket since 1927 and are sourced off the shelf so RMG can place orders with fast lead times and no waste. Staff asked for a more formal shirt to be included in the collection, so we created a workwear inspired long sleeve shirt in a classic style. It features an oversized pocket for additional storage as the team often struggled carrying multiple paper guides. The half sleeve shirt enjoys the same fabrication, workwear inspiration and beautifully crafted details. However, it is more versatile in that it can also be worn as a lightweight jacket in warmer months. The large Greenwich Green branding gives both shirts a strong identity and recognition.
From 100% naturally breathable Guernsey wool jumpers to ethically-sourced organic cotton sweatshirts, we worked with many incredible garment and fabric makers, pioneering great change in the sustainable fashion sector. This collection was intentionally designed to be passed on so when current staff leave, the uniforms will be washed and worn by the next employee. Creating for longevity is the very essence of what makes a garment sustainable.
In addition to designing sustainably, we also wanted a collection of clothing that works for everyone. The entire collection is gender neutral, leaving it down to the staff to wear whichever pieces they choose.
“I’m delighted to be introducing our new uniform- the first we’ve had in more than 10 years! We worked with HemingwayDesign to design a uniform that is practical, comfortable and supports our drive to help you in your everyday role of confidently meeting and engaging with visitors. We have worked hard to ensure that all the fabrics and suppliers used for the uniform meet high standards of sustainability. This has been achieved by using organic cotton, wool and recycled plastics. As you know from the consultation exercise, we focused on sustainability together with a stylish cultured but practical feel that would suit our artistic, industrial and scientific history.”
Paddy Rodgers, CEO- Royal Museums Greenwich