A Dundee University textiles graduate has developed a student project into a fully-fledged ski clothing range, which launched at a London ski and snowboard show.
Paula Fox originally developed her colour-coded ski jackets while at DJCAD, after being saved from a serious skiing accident by her bright coloured clothing, which allowed her to be easily spotted.
Originally named PonyoSquid Ski Apparel, the brand has now been re-named to Nixvis and will incorporate wearable lighting technology to improve safety while on the slopes.
Paula said: “We were the only Scottish brand going to the four day-long event and we represented Ski Scotland which means all Scottish mountain resorts.
“We featured Ski Scotland videos, T-shirts, DVDs and giving ski passes as prizes.
“We have also recently been listed as “the coolest new ski brands launching this season”.
“I was always advised against what I’m doing, as it wasn’t seen as something doable and was seen as too niche.
“So to have come this far is amazing and slightly terrifying!
“I graduated in 2014 and the past two years have been crazy – really busy but exciting at the same time.
“I have been very well supported by the Royal Society of Edinburgh and Scottish Enterprise, who are funding the launch.”
Paula explained that when she launched the brand at university, it was a “feasibility project” to see if there was a market for her idea.
She ended up selling over 80% of the garments and found that there was a niche market for them.
Paula added: “The student project turned out to be very successful, but I felt that it needed to be presented in a more professional way.
“Rather than being colour coded to reflect different ability levels – as was the original idea – the new jackets will have an integrated lighting system within them.
“This would allow the wearer to be seen during white-outs, thick fog and in snow.
“To begin with we’re focusing on the skiing market, but in the future may extent to cater for hikers and cyclists too.”
