Meet the iD Board

Which designers are you really enjoying right now?

I like to support and wear local NZ designers and emerging designers including those from our very own Otago Polytechnic Fashion. NOM*d and Company of Strangers have a significant place in my wardrobe, and I have worn these labels since their inception. Emerging NZ based designers to watch: JPalm, JoJo Ross, Masami. Internationally I love recent collections from Comme des Garcons, Dior, Schiaparelli, Lutz Huelle, Tom Brown, Henrik Vibskov to name a few, for their risk taking, innovation, collaboration with artisans, playfulness and exquisite fabrics and textile design.

How important is it for NZ fashion to become more sustainable?

Responsible design is essential to the future of our industry. NZ designers are very aware of the need to be more sustainable, while textile technologies, manufacturing and the supply chain are providing more and more alternatives to polyesters and other polluting materials and processes. Legislative compliance and regulations to meet sustainable goals are being rigorously introduced in Europe, including the monitoring of the fashion supply chain through Digital Product Passports and a drive to make textile waste the responsibility of the producer. Here in Aotearoa we have our industry focussed body Mindful Fashion NZ - check them out.

I tend to be of the opinion we should be aware of our consumption habits, buy quality garments over quantity and opt for designers that integrate responsible, sustainable design practices. Do your homework and watch out for misleading and false claims.

‍Do you follow the careers of the fashion students you have taught over the years?

‍Absolutely, it is exciting and extremely satisfying to see successes as graduates navigate the fashion, textile and design industries. Our graduates end up in all sorts of positions within design, fashion and apparel - production, retail, promotion, teaching, as well as growing their own businesses.

‍Who would be your dream guest judge at iD Dunedin International Emerging Designer Awards?

‍A dream judge is one that truly supports emerging talent and innovation, honestly I would love to meet Maria Grazia Chiuri, as I admire her visual storytelling, collaboration and showcasing of artisans when at Dior.

‍What is your most treasured item of clothing?

‍Mmmm now that’s a tricky question LOL! I try to treasure all my clothes to keep them in great shape, so they have longevity. Perhaps a red velvet tulip skirt from Comme des Garcons that I found in a second-hand clothing store for a fraction of the original price and in tip top condition!