For Shannon Ashley Uys, fashion has always been about making something beautiful out of what already exists.
A graduate of the Bachelor of Fashion and Textiles program at University of Technology Sydney (UTS), she combines intricate beadwork, sustainable design practices, and a passion for motorsport to create an independent label that brings visibility and confidence to women in underrepresented spaces.
What began as a teenage curiosity with a sewing machine grew into a passion for fashion design. After teaching herself to sew at 15 and experimenting with creating outfits on a budget, Shannon knew early on that she wanted to explore her creative potential, making UTS her first choice.
"I chose UTS because it was recognised as one of Australia's leading universities for fashion and design," she says. "I wanted a course that challenged me creatively while also providing strong industry and theoretical foundations. What attracted me most was the balance between practical skills and academic knowledge."
Her decision was reinforced by the university’s unique approach to design education.
"Fashion is about much more than creating garments; it's about understanding history, culture, sustainability, and the impact design has on people. During my time at UTS, I came to appreciate how theory informs practice and how the two work together to create stronger designers. That combination continues to shape how I approach my brand and creative process today."
Shaping a creative voice through sustainability
When asked about her most memorable experience at UTS, Shannon points to the profound ethical questions raised during her studies.
"One of the most memorable parts of my Fashion and Textiles degree at UTS was learning about sustainability and the impact the fashion industry has on the world," she says.
"Those lectures challenged us to ask an important question: in a world facing environmental and social challenges, why do we need more fashion designers? UTS taught me that design is about more than creating garments. Designers have the power to influence culture, identity, and sustainability."
The experience taught her the value of hard work and the importance of late nights in the studio, which ultimately shaped her into the business owner she is today.
"That perspective inspired me to start my own brand, Shannon Ashley. Through my work, I create sustainable, upcycled pieces that foster belonging for women in motorsport while proving that something old can become new again—and sometimes even more beautiful because of the story it already carries."
From fashion student to a viral brand
Shannon's independent label explores a world shaped by reimagining what already exists. Before graduating, she began combining her two distinct passions—fashion and Formula 1 through her beaded F1-inspired pieces.
"I started exploring fashion by transforming old clothes into new pieces," she explains.
Through intricate beadwork, texture, and upcycled materials, her Formula 1 beaded shirts—which are custom-designed and hand-beaded with over 5,000 shimmering beads create wearable art with intention—reimagine underrepresented spaces like motorsport as places of inclusivity for women.
"Today I design beaded and upcycled pieces inspired by storytelling, sustainability, and creating belonging for women in underrepresented spaces like motorsport," she says. "Creating something beautiful from something old and giving it a new story remains at the heart of everything I do."
While Shannon approached her early designs as an authentic creative outlet, she never expected the explosive response her work would receive online.
"After several designs gained attention online, including going viral on social media, my brand evolved quickly."
The momentum allowed her to fast-track her career as an independent designer right out of university, relying on the strong technical and theoretical foundation she built during her degree as she continues to expand her brand's global footprint.
What's next?
"Since graduating, I’ve continued growing Shannon Ashley, focusing on sustainable and upcycled fashion while creating pieces that celebrate individuality and belonging within motorsport communities," she says. "I also spent a year in the UK, which helped me connect with international motorsport audiences."
Moving forward, she continues to focus on the empowering nature of custom, circular fashion.
"What I enjoy most is seeing how fashion can empower people and help them feel confident, seen, and connected."
Why study Fashion and Textiles Design at UTS?
Shannon strongly recommends the course to future students, particularly those who want their creative output to have a meaningful purpose.
"Yes, absolutely. If you're someone who loves being creative but also wants to understand the thinking behind what you create, I'd definitely recommend it," she says.
"One of the biggest things I learned at UTS was that great design isn't just about making something look good—it's about understanding its impact on people and the world around us. The course challenged me to think differently, experiment, and develop my own creative voice while building strong technical skills."
