Designer Olivia Cashmore. Image supplied.
Olivia Cashmore launched her eponymous label earlier this year, showcasing her contemporary designs and considered approach. Olivia first starting sewing at a young age and her love of fashion saw her graduate from Whitecliffe College of Art & Design with a degree in fashion design. She honed her production and design skills at Maggie Marilyn over several years before deciding the time was right to create her own label. Olivia Cashmore the brand offers a range of styles for pre-order meaning there is no over-production and waste is minimised. Olivia’s appealing debut collection is available to shop online and at her pop-up shop Thursday – Saturday, 15 Kent Street, Newmarket, Auckland.
We caught up with Olivia to find out more about her brand, what inspires her and what you would never catch her wearing!
Tell us about your latest collection?
I’ve been thinking a lot recently about how we are never quite satisfied with what we have. Going through a global pandemic has helped me to focus on the here and now and I am trying to be grateful for what I do have. My Summer Collection in particular was inspired by those things we crave about Summer (especially while in Winter and in lockdown). The warmth of the sun, eating outside until 10pm with friends and evening swims. A nod to the things we have to look forward to. Dresses, lightweight fabrics and those pieces you just end up wearing everyday.
What made you become a designer?
I come from a very creative family where someone was and is always doing a project! My grandmother was a very talented sewer, so when I got my hands on her sewing machine I just couldn’t stop. I loved how I could create something out of nothing and then wear it. I have so many ideas and felt like it was the right time to see if anyone would like them.
What inspires you?
It could honestly be anything. A colour or a fabric and often it’s hip-hop and R&B for me. The beat and lyrics of the songs. At the moment, I am heavily inspired by a new Korean TV show that I have been watching. It’s for Winter 22 so I won’t reveal too much but the colours and mix of patterns is very fun!
Looks from Olivia Cashmore’s debut collection.
Describe your personal style and how it influences your designs?
Very tomboyish and often oversized. I enjoy mixing casual pieces with something more formal. In doing this, I feel polished but also comfortable. I love fabrics and colours (that’s what I start with when designing) so I often like to mix different textures or add a pop of colour.
What is your all-time favourite purchase?
When I graduated university I saved up for months and bought myself a Céline cross body bag in bright blue. I had had my eye on it for years and I use it everyday.
What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?
A classic blazer and a great pair of shoes. These might sound boring, but when I am getting dressed my outfit doesn’t feel complete without these two things. I think you can wear something quite simple and casual but dress it up easily with these items. You can’t go wrong with a good bag either ahah!
Do you have a style rule you always obey?
To wear what you love and what makes you feel good. Too often we worry about what other people think. If I want to dress up I dress up, if I want to wear my trackpants I do. My mum has always said ‘look good, feel better’ and it’s so true. When I put on something that I know looks good on me it instantly changes my mood.
Looks from Olivia Cashmore’s debut collection.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
The people I have met. Before starting my own brand I worked at Maggie Marilyn and the team was something else! We all got along so well and each and everyone of them felt like a part of my family. I have so many memories with all of them. The suppliers and makers too, it’s so fantastic being able to have a relationship with all the people involved in making your garments.
Another highlight would be taking the step this year to start my own label. It was a bit of a scary decision, but the support I have had is nothing short of extraordinary and I’ve had so much fun!
What can’t you live without?
My family. If this pandemic has taught me anything it’s to not sweat the small stuff and to focus on what I do have rather than what I don’t. I am extremely close with my family, and I can’t imagine not having them around. Where they go I go. I count myself very blessed as I know this isn’t a reality for a lot of people.
Finish this sentence – You would never catch me wearing…
Crocs! I know they are coming back in fashion, but I just can’t.
Images supplied.