Ruby ottem
Fashion BFA
SCAD Savannah
Specialisms: Textiles - Knit / Womenswear / Apparel
Location: Savannah, United States
Ruby ottem
First Name: Ruby
Last Name: ottem
Specialisms: Textiles - Knit / Womenswear / Apparel
Sectors:
My Location: Savannah, United States
University / College: SCAD Savannah
Course / Program Title: Fashion BFA
About
Hello! My name is Ruby Ottem, and I’m a senior fashion student at the Savannah College of Art and Design. I design elevated ready-to-wear that focuses on flattering silhouettes, thoughtful color, and pieces that bring confidence to the wearer. My work is heavily influenced by music and emotion—I love translating a feeling into shape, texture, and movement. I’m originally from Minnesota, and I got into fashion after realizing how much clothing helped me build my own confidence; now I hope to create that same experience for others. I’m a very hands-on designer who enjoys draping, collaging, experimenting, and recently exploring knitwear.
Back to Folk is a five-look ready-to-wear collection that explores the value of craftsmanship, community, and emotional connection in an increasingly fast-paced world. Inspired by folk traditions, music, and personal family history, the collection reinterprets these influences through a contemporary lens, creating garments that feel both timeless and relevant. The project combines knitwear, denim, and tactile textile development to emphasize the beauty of handmade processes. Through machine knitting, yarn manipulation, draping, and extensive material experimentation, I developed custom textiles and silhouettes that balance texture, wearability, and storytelling. Every stage of the collection, from concept development and textile sampling to garment construction and creative direction, was driven by a hands-on approach to design. Back to Folk reflects my interest in creating clothing with longevity and meaning, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the people, traditions, and craftsmanship behind what we wear.
Competitions
Global Creative Graduate Showcase 2026
Contour Cable is a performance knitwear concept designed for life in motion. The collection reimagines traditional cable knit structures as functional tools for contour, support, and movement, blending the comfort and familiarity of knitwear with the performance demands of active apparel. Engineered with recycled, high-stretch yarns, each piece is designed to sculpt the body while allowing unrestricted mobility throughout the day. The system includes versatile base layers and transitional knit outerwear that move seamlessly from workout to everyday wear. Inspired by lululemon’s circular design initiatives, the collection explores the potential of transforming surplus and retired leggings into innovative performance yarns.
Competitions
