Pacific Fusion Fashion Show 2022 takes to the runway in just a few weeks on Saturday 28th May and in the lead-in we’re going to hear from each of the talented designers who will be showcasing their collections at the event. Each label showing at PFFS has been hand-picked by event founder Nora Swann for their talent and style which celebrates their individuality and culture.
This first group of designers includes Alexandra Simpson, Massey Williams and Phillip Heketoa. If you’re keen to attend this year’s Pacific Fusion Fashion Show you can get tickets on Eventfinda.
Alexandra Simpson – Alexandra Simpson
Why do you want to be part of Pacific Fusion Fashion Show 2022 and what does the event mean to you?
I think it is an amazing opportunity to showcase Pacific/Māori designers’ stories, and to me, it is very special, as reconnecting to my heritage has been a big thing these last few years, so to be able to showcase that I feel very lucky, also it’s my first fashion show!
What can we expect from your collection for PFFS?
My collection is actually a story of my journey as a Māori woman, so expect storytelling and emotion conveyed through my designs.
What has the process been like for making this collection?
I feel like it’s been beautiful discovering parts of my heritage and connecting with family but also emotional, with all the lockdowns it’s definitely made it an interesting time to create and to really channel my energy into my art.
What inspires you as a designer?
Life honestly, living life, art, nature, and friends.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Because I do a range of things and am not just a fashion student, I recently did an interview with Good magazine about my journey as an ethical model, so that was cool to see it in print. I think anything that allows me to share and inspire people to live more consciously and sustainably, whether that be through my work or my Instagram platform and the message gets across in a positive way, I’m grateful for that. Even this, I’m grateful for it all.
What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?
As much as past Ali would hate to say it, I’m going to say a pair of nice fitting high-waisted jeans or just a pair of nice black pants in general.
Do you have a style rule you always obey?
If I’m not wearing all pink, there must be a splash of it somewhere, also sunnies on hand ALWAYS!
Where would you like your label to be in five years’ time?
I would say hopefully started haha, somewhere abroad and still sticking by my values of being ethical and sustainable and making a difference to peoples lives and giving back to the world.
Massey Williams – DISCIPLE OF DISCIPLINE
Why do you want to be part of Pacific Fusion Fashion Show 2022 and what does the event mean to you?
It’s a huge honour and privilege to be a part of this. I have seen it grow and develop into this awesome platform, in the past I was tied up with other projects but this year I can jump on this.
What can we expect from your collection for PFFS?
I want to make a statement with this collection.
What has the process been like for making this collection?
It’s been a tough process putting it together, it’s a crazy time of the year with work etc… but I love it.
What inspires you as a designer?
I’m an action guy, anything to do with sports, military, lol, I’m in.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Graduating from design school and Project Runway New Zealand.
Do you have a style rule you always obey?
I obey no conventional fashion laws.
Where would you like your label to be in five years’ time?
Along the legends of New Zealand fashion – Zambesi, NOM*d and Karen Walker.
Phillip Heketoa – LIPO
Why do you want to be part of Pacific Fusion Fashion Show 2022 and what does the event mean to you?
The PFFS is an exciting platform to highlight/show many different layers of Pacific people that exist in the community. A space for first time, emerging and established designers to showcase, network, express and lead.
What can we expect from your collection for PFFS?
LIPO is my debut collection. My label name is a nickname my nan and fam call me. The collection is different layers of who I am and who I’m becoming on my designer journey. Fun fact: I’ve just completed my first year in sewing construction level 3. I’m also challenging myself as I’m learning, to try new things I’ve never been taught and doing a lot of manipulation and experimenting. Hand on my heart I really do love my collection and can’t wait to share.
What has the process been like for making this collection?
I wanted every piece to feel like me and that I would 100 percent wear. I also wanted to say something, so using cut offs, scraps and donated fabrics for some of the garments, sustainable fashion makes me really happy.
Model choices are also really important as I want to represent all body types, genders and ages.
What inspires you as a designer?
This is a new journey for me, I left my FX makeup job in 2020 to upskill in fashion design. The long term goal is to find work on set in wardrobe tv/film.
The blessings I’ve had on this journey have been huge for my growth and direction as a designer. It feels like I’ve come full circle and that poignant times in my life I realise I’ve been creating forever.
Never ever thought I’d be here over a year later with a collection – wtf, lol!
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
As a student I feel like I’ve had a few highlights that have helped me grow to where I am today. Super grateful for them all.
What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?
A pair of shoes/heels you can dress up or go casual.
Do you have a style rule you always obey?
Comfortable – feeling and being your authentic self.
Where would you like your label to be in five years’ time?
Growing. Successful. Rewarding.
Images supplied.