Toia Tiwha from ENAJ. Image supplied.
Toia Tiwha is the designer and founder of contemporary womenswear label ENAJ which she launched in late 2020. ENAJ is dedicated to empowering women and a portion of the proceeds from the label will go towards funding workshops that work alongside women to empower, uplift and build their confidence. It was important to Toia that ENAJ is designed and produced in New Zealand and she worked closely with local suppliers and manufacturers on the creation of her Spring/Summer 2020/21 collection.
We caught up with Toia to find out more about her brand, what inspires her and what you would never catch her wearing!
Tell us about your latest collection?
My latest collection is inspired by the 1830s meets boho chic. I wanted to create staple items with statement pieces.
What made you become a designer?
I had reached a point in my life where I was forced to look in the mirror and ask myself ‘If I could wake up every day and do what I love what would that look like?’ From a young age fashion always intrigued me and ignited a passion inside me. Now is my time to share and express my creativity through my designs.
What inspires you?
Mana wāhine have always inspired me, when I see wāhine radiating confidence and holding composure within themselves their style goes beyond the garment.
Looks from ENAJ’s Spring/Summer 2020/21 collection.
Describe your personal style and how it influences your designs?
I’m known to take a casual item and mix it up with a statement piece. This will be shown throughout my designs.
What is your all-time favourite purchase?
I was at the markets and came across a lady who was selling handmade kimono style jackets out of recycled fabrics. I fell in love with one and am absolutely obsessed with it, It is such a statement piece!
What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?
Investing in good quality black glasses.
Do you have a style rule you always obey?
Be confident in whatever you wear. Remember, You wear the clothes not the clothes wear you.
Looks from ENAJ’s Spring/Summer 2020/21 collection.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
I wanted to save and self-fund my label so it embodies all of who I am. To be able to say I did that is something I am proud of.
What can’t you live without?
Kawakawa balm – my favourite form of Rongoā Māori.
Finish this sentence – You would never catch me wearing…
Crocs- no explanation needed
Images supplied.