When did you begin your journey with fashion designing?

I've always had an interest in fashion and clothing, but either thought that it was unachievable ,and as an industry, too unsustainable. I've come to realise now that I can still do what I truly love as well as advocate for the damages caused by this trade. I am self-taught in all things sewing & design. My background is actually in events & marketing and did that for a few years - knew the whole time that it wasn't for me. I was told most of my life that I couldn't make a living being creative. I am slowly trying to break out of that thought cycle. It has now been a year and 3 months since I first purchased my first ever sewing machine, now I have four!

What does sustainability mean to you?

I fear that most brands now use the word sustainable as a green washing tactic and it now holds no meaning to me. I think people think the word sustainable is an umbrella term for ethical practises - it's not. Some sustainable companies are not ethical. I truly believe in true transparency and being ethical. If I were to use virgin fabrics, not only is it end of line, I can also trace it all the way to its origins and have a full understanding of working conditions. I try to incorporate as much natural fabrics as possible, not only are they more durable, they also decompose, unlike most synthetic fibres used in a lot of clothing now.

Why do you think it’s important to create clothing sustainably?

I think creating sustainable clothes is only a fraction of the solution. I think we also have to address our consumption habits, cooperation’s marketing strategies, people over profits and any exploitation of resources along the way.

I feel I fight an inner battle everyday of constantly wanting to create, having such an attachment to design, but not wanting to create garments that would one day be found thrown into landfill. I feel like having this conscious awareness has helped me make better decisions for my brand as it continues to grow. Now that sustainably has leaked into the mainstream, I am excited for our future. For the changes in behaviour and changes in technology that would one day help the world balance itself out with nature.

What inspires you and your designs?

I like challenging the toxic ethos of junking items once out of style, feeding my childhood fantasy of living in Mad Max. The act of having to scavenge and savage what was once in landfill to create outfits that would sustain these end of world characters priority of covering their bare skin from the fiery heat of the post-apocalyptic sun. I like reaching the limits of my creativity by patching and sewing together what was left of the modern world. 

I believe that nothing can truly be disposed of, having landfill is such an unnecessary and outdated approach to waste management. I feel that we need to once again find true meaning & values to all material things. Have it serve its durable purpose that will last many life times! 

What advice do you have for other young designers out there?

To put your work out there, even if you don’t think it’s perfect. Someone will always like it more than you do. Social media has made things so much easier, utilise it! Always ask for advice, people are so happy to help. Always stand up for yourself. Make your voice heard. Have fun! Make friends! Have a break when tasks start feeling like chores.