Which other designers do you admire and for what reasons?
I love other designers because of their work ethic, or their energy and personality that is translated into their work. I admire Yohji Yamamoto and the way he challenges and seeks for the simplistic lines that form the basis of his design. I also have a lot of respect for Christopher Kane for his modern and youthful approach to design and his innovative and experimental vision. Rei Kawakubo is another designer I greatly admire. These designers are not dictated by trends, but are trendsetters, and that is what I aspire to bring to my designs.
Describe your very distinctive t-shirt prints and the idea behind them. I wanted to clash two identical images that we are familiar with and merge the two in order to find another level of beauty and harmonious balance out of the norm. Some of my prints merge the three cities that we’re familiar with: Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland together. By taking these striking images and placing them in a different context, it reinforces the idea of illusional beauty, through imagery that we often take for granted.
You must be looking forward to showing at fashion week this year. How are you preparing for it mentally?
I am really excited to showcase my work to the public, the media and the buyers through the fantastic help and support of the Air New Zealand Fashion Week organisers. If my work can perhaps inspire and communicate to other people, I’ve obtained my goal. Mentally I prepare a lot by seeking the company and support of my family and friends - it truly works.