E S C A
Is a brand focused on hand-crafted textile accessories. Ran by knitwear designer Lauren Morley-Aistrop.
Originally from London and raised in Sheffield, my love for textiles began during childhood, inspired by long hours spent in awe watching my grandmother knit. I first picked up a pair of knitting needles at age four and haven’t stopped creating since.
In 2021, I returned to London to study knitwear at the London College of Fashion, UAL. During my three-year degree, I explored the vast potential of knitwear, experimenting across sportswear, footwear, womenswear, menswear, interiors, and accessories. Throughout this journey, I developed a strong focus on hyper-textured fibres with a sensory appeal, something that continues to define my creative process.
My current collection ‘Coco’, and my first collection under my new brand name E S C A, reflects life post-graduation: returning to the North, embracing a slower pace, and reconnecting with the people and places that shaped me. Inspired by time spent with my grandparents, walks in the Peak District, close friendships, and a deep connection to nature and animals, the collection highlights hand-knit techniques and traditional craft processes. It features natural fibres, with wool being a staple component, climbing hardware like carabiners and paracord, wooden beads, and more.
‘Escafeld’ is the pre-Norman name for Sheffield, England, where my brand is based. ‘Esca’ is associated with the Celtic word for river and is used to describe individuals who have a strong affinity for nature.
Sustainability is central to my practice. I carefully consider the source of every material—prioritising natural fibres, second-hand finds, and recycled components wherever possible.
Esca is about embracing thoughtful design, meaningful experiences, and a deep connection to nature, people and place.