Alysha Webster, lead designer at NYNE
There’s a common thread that seems to unite a number of hugely successful designers — it’s a beautiful family connection, usually to their grandmothers, many of whom grew up in an era where designing and making their own clothes was just what they did, more through necessity than desire.
This nostalgic backstory forms part of Alysha Webster’s legacy, but from this early casual introduction to designing and sewing, she has certainly gone on to forge her own path.
From the honour of working on wedding dresses to designing for Trelise Cooper followed by bold plans to pursue her career in Sydney, COVID and the pandemic threw a spanner in the works and instead of immersing herself in the busy pace of Sydney, Alysha and her partner found themselves in Tauranga as borders closed around them.
In hindsight, however, that unexpected move did result in an opportunity that otherwise most likely wouldn’t have been on her radar.
Alysha met the passionate owners of iconic New Zealand label NYNE and is now the lead designer for this contemporary heritage label, continuing its 19-year legacy and commitment to New Zealand design and New Zealand-made fashion.
It’s an almost ridiculously perfect outlet for her creativity — not only does Alysha design concepts and entire collections but her flair for the original is also nurtured with the creation of a completely unique bespoke NYNE print each season.
FashioNZ finds out more about what inspires and drives Alysha’s passion for this industry, which she was determined to pursue from a young age.
What were your interests during your school years?
My main focus was on fashion. By the time I reached year 12, I only attended the soft materials class and spent most of my school hours there. I enthusiastically participated in various sewing and design competitions such as Bernina Young Designers and Fashion in the Fields at the Races. Eventually, around the middle of year 12, I decided to leave school and dedicated my time to making outfits to wear out on weekends. I then went to Bay of Plenty Polytechnic — at the time they offered the Otago Fashion Degree.
How did your career path begin in the fashion industry?
I started my career working for a nearby bridal designer who also worked as a contract pattern drafter for a few designers in Tauranga. I loved my job, as I got to design and sew stunning wedding dresses for half the week and enhance my pattern drafting skills for the other half. Knowing how a garment is assembled has been helpful in my design work. I then went on to work as a production assistant before moving up to Auckland for a dream job of designing for Trelise Cooper.
What is important to you when designing and why?
Firstly, I think about myself and what I want to wear for the upcoming season. Then I think about whether our customers are going to want that too; we have quite a diverse market, so I consider who will be wearing this piece and where.
Lifestyle and practicality are also important. A garment should not only be aesthetically pleasing but also functional and comfortable for the wearer. Practicality involves considering fabric choice, durability, ease of care, and functionality of the garment. All of this impacts the wearer’s experience and the overall success of the design. Therefore, a balance between fashion and function should be maintained to create clothes that not only look good but also serve a practical purpose.
What is important for you to consider in terms of design?
When designing, there are numerous important factors to consider. However, one of my top priorities is sustainability. It’s not just about using natural fibres in fabrics but also about creating garments that will endure the test of time and not be discarded after a few wears. We consider whether pieces will remain beloved in wardrobes five years from now or become outdated. We also ensure that they can be washed and worn repeatedly, and eventually resold or donated.
What are non-negotiables when it comes to the heart of NYNE as a brand?
Quality, attention to detail, and designing our own prints to really tell the story of the season.
Why is New Zealand-made and New Zealand-designed so important to you?
What I appreciate the most about New Zealand-made and designed is the opportunity to support our local community. It’s great to personally know the people who crafted our clothes.
A sum up of your favourite looks this season and a sneak peek at next season?
A couple of outfits I will have on repeat are:
- Constance Skirt Oyster, last winter’s oversized Merino T-shirt, and the Revere Blazer in black with my platform Docs
- Black Awakening Pant, Black Divy Hoodie, and the Oyster Ottie Trench with a trainer
I find it so easy in the colder months to just turn to dark colours constantly, but this winter when the days are dark and grey, it’s going to be nice to have the Oyster colourways in my wardrobe to just lighten everything up, even if it means wearing an all-black base and chucking on the Oyster Ottie Trench or Halle Coat.
Next Season SS24, I am excited to launch our two exclusive prints: Verdant and Flora. They’re a real juxtaposition. The Verdprint design features bold green lines that showcase strength and resilience and can be found in a comfortable and relaxed shirt and pant set. Meanwhile, Flora embodies beauty and fruition with its blooming flowers. Our first drop will include some great cotton knitwear, such as the Maeve dress and Edge sweater, made with robust cotton knit, perfect for layering during early spring.
What aspect of the process from original concept through to design and the final garment gives you the most personal satisfaction and why?
I think because I started our drawing, pattern drafting and sewing my own clothes when I was younger (and I barely do that for myself any more) I love working closely with our pattern drafters and sample machinists to perfect a sample. In a perfect world, you’d just sign off a design after the first sample but I love the back-and-forth discussions with our talented outworkers to perfect and really nut out the best garment possible.
What might people be surprised to know about you?
I am actually a real introvert and am more than happy to quietly work in the background of NYNE than being the face.
Images supplied