Designer Stephanie Saxton. Image supplied.
Stephanie Saxton is the designer of lifestyle brand Saltysea which she founded earlier this year. The label makes its New Zealand Fashion Week debut next month in the swimwear show with its latest range that is ethically manufactured in Bali. Creating thoughtful clothing that is sustainable and comfortable is Stephanie’s aim and Saltysea has had a warm reception online since its launch.
We caught up with Stephanie to find out more about her brand, what inspires her and what you would never catch her wearing!
Tell us about your latest collection?
Our latest collection epitomises the spirit of adventure. It was designed to be simplistic, with an importance on leaving a positive ethical and environmental footprint on the world. From the world traveller to the everyday active lifestylist, this collection honours the natural curves of a woman’s body, allowing her to go on everyday adventures in complete confidence and comfort. Inspired hugely by our love for the outdoors, our colour palette for this collection was inspired by everything wild.
What made you become a designer?
I’ve always had a passion to create something of my own, something I was proud of, but also something I could use as a vehicle to give back and do something positive in the world. I’ve always had a love for comfortable clothing, and having an active lifestyle growing up, I found myself wearing active wear 90% of the time! I try my absolute best to live a healthy and ethical lifestyle, so teaming these things together, I was inspired to take the plunge and create Saltysea!
What inspires you?
A lot, so many things inspire me. Believe it or not, my golden Labrador, Trooper inspired me with ‘Saltysea’ – ever since I brought him with me from Canada to New Zealand – I’d always call him my ‘salty sea dog’ and one day it just clicked, and ‘Saltysea’ it was. But besides Trooper, the ocean inspires me, the colours, the waves, the sun rise and the sun set, the absolute beauty of it inspires me, and my collections. Seeing peoples reactions to the Saltysea pieces, that’s an incredible feeling, seeing people wear Saltysea, and speak so highly of it inspires me to continually strive. I think knowing the fact that with Saltysea I can make a positive impact inspires me to never give up.
Pieces from Saltysea’s latest collection.
Describe your personal style & how it influences your designs?
Every piece I’ve created in this collection are pieces that I personally love to fill my wardrobe with. My personal style is definitely comfortable chic, with a beachy vibe.
What is your all time favourite purchase?
Most definitely my golden lab, Trooper.
But fashion related; a good pair of jandals. You’ll catch me wearing jandals all year round!
What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?
A good pair of tights! Every woman needs that statement piece they can wear to yoga, or dress up to go out. This is how we designed our Lacuna bottoms. A classic tight that will last you countless seasons of adventuring, yoga and travelling.
Do you have a style rule you always obey?
Definitely not. I think anything goes in this industry, if you rock something with confidence then good on you.
I say, do you.
Pieces from Saltysea’s latest collection.
What has been a highlight of your career so far?
This is a tough one because every step bringing Saltysea to life has been a highlight. From seeing the samples for the very first time and spending time with my manufacturers, to seeing people on the streets and beaches wearing Saltysea with confidence. It’s been such an incredible feeling. Now to be a part of New Zealand Fashion Week as one of the New Emerging Brands – this will definitely be a huge highlight, and I’m so excited about what’s to come.
What can’t you live without?
Natural light, the ocean and the fresh air!
Finish this sentence – you would never catch me wearing…
Tough question, I’d probably give anything a go!
Images supplied.