Sarah Dallas

Sarah’s relationship with the RCA began as a student graduating in MA Textile Design in 1976 before going on to become a prominent and dynamic voice in the world of knitwear and a dear colleague and inspiring tutor at the RCA.

Colleagues from across the RCA community have expressed sadness and paid tribute to Sarah.

"I remember first meeting Sarah Dallas when I arrived at the RCA in 2009. I had been told of her extraordinary reputation in the fashion and textiles world and was not surprised to meet a very chic and distinguished looking individual who had a wonderfully crisp and clear way of explaining the technique of a particular knit - its construction, manufacture, use - to a layman like me. Sarah was exceptionally friendly and welcoming, clearly a real professional and someone who knew and cared deeply about her field - and of course, 'the Royal'.... She'll be very sadly missed by all of us."

Dr Paul Thompson, RCA Vice-Chancellor

"Sarah was an extremely hard working and perceptive tutor who was loyal and caring to her students. She was great company and good fun to be with. I have very fond memories of our work trips together in Italy where we saw the funny side of everything! I was very sorry and sad to hear the news."

Professor Wendy Dagworthy

"Sarah would have loved to know that the college, that she adored, recognised her passing and the tremendous contribution she made not only to fashion knitwear but to Knitted Textiles which was also a huge part of her work at the RCA. We were colleagues and friends for over 20 years... I shall miss knowing she is in the world."

Hilary Laurence, Administrator Academic Development Office

"Sarah had a discerning eye for design and a deep passion for Fashion and Textiles. She was devoted to the RCA and cared deeply for her many students throughout her long career in education. She will be greatly missed as a colleague and friend."

Professor Clare Johnston

"Each time Sarah visited the knitwear department she brought another valuable perspective and amazing enthusiasm. Always giving each student dedicated time and her full attention. It is an honour to have had Sarah’s time and contribution to our study."

Eleana Burrows, (MA Fashion 2020)

"Sarah, as well as being a close friend and colleague, was an inspiring tutor, and incredibly loyal to her students who graduated to the best knitwear jobs in the industry. She must have been so proud recently that her ex-student Douglas Stuart, who had been a top New York designer and won the Booker prize for ‘Shuggie Bain’."

Henrietta Goodden (former Senior Tutor, Womenswear)

"Sarah and I worked closely together especially when we visited Pitti Filati yarn fair in Italy. There we made close connections with the Italian and UK spinners and reconnected with numerous alumni working in the industry around the world. They all remember her fondly.

We were firm friends for many years and enjoyed many shared social experiences together. My brilliant friend Sarah, may you rest in peace."
Sheila Clark, Specialist Technical Instructor in Fashion & Textiles

"I greatly admired Sarah, firstly as an RCA student back in 1993 and then as one of her colleagues in Fashion. We had some great times together and I will miss her dearly - especially her excellent sense of humour and unique sense of style."
Flora McLean, Fashion Senior Lecturer in Footwear, Accessories, Millinery and Eyewear

"I am so sad to hear about Sarah’s passing. She was such a passionate and extremely knowledgeable tutor, her contribution to the industry is invaluable. As an alumnus, I treasure the care she had for all her students and her ability to make everybody feel at ease. She was a very supportive tutor who was genuinely keen to see us all succeed in our careers, and most of us kept in touch with her regularly. I have spent many evenings with her at Pitti Filati, chatting over a great meal and glass of Prosecco in her favourite restaurant in Florence. This is how I shall always remember her."
Carlo Volpi, Knitwear Associate Lecturer

"Dear Sarah, I was so sad to hear of your passing. An inspiring teacher to me when I studied knit at the RCA 1993-1995. You had a real gift for knitwear design, as now all your 'knitters' do too! You were straight talking and always a positive influence. My lady in black wearing red lippy!! Oh! how we laughed. RIP dear Sarah."
Lisa Burn-Hunter MA RCA