The homegrown talent from NZFW continues.... (see Part One of this feature here). Read how these two incredible women stay organised pre + during fashion week. 

MAGGIE MARILYN

Tell us a bit about the brand - How did it all begin and how did you know the time was right to start? 

I designed and sampled a collection straight out of University because I really just wanted to design clothes that I wanted to wear. It all happen very organically in the beginning because I was moving to my pace and there wasn’t any pressure which I think really shines through in my first collection. I was lucky enough to be picked up by Net-a-porter, and the rest is history, as they say.

Describe the brand in 5 words

Feminine, strong, effortless and livable luxury.
 

What has been the biggest challenge to date? and your biggest highlight to date?

 I think growing a new business in general is a challenge you really have to give it your all, it takes a huge amount of dedication, determination and passion to push through the tough days but on the flip side there have been so many highlights over the past year, from getting to meet my idols in this industry to our first collection almost selling out in 72 hours. I feel very blessed, but I have a wonderful team and supportive network surrounding me all of which have been instrumental in the success of the brand so far.

What has been the one piece of advice you received that has stayed with you through the years? And what one piece of advice would you give a budding designer? 

After the rain the sun always comes out. And most importantly trust your own gut. It will alway guide you in the right direction.

What's the inspiration behind your collection for NZFW this year? What can we expect to see? 

We are hosting an intimate lunch. It will be a wonderful afternoon of good food, wine and great company, so we won’t be showing in a fashion show.
 

How are you finding the lead up to the show and how are you handling the stress and workload? Will you be working on the range right up to the last minute?!

 
I can only imagine how much is left to prepare for the designers who are presenting shows this year. Because we’ve organised a Lunch for Fashion Week the weight is off my shoulders a little. Although I am currently working on Season 5. The completion date seems to be approaching very quickly so I’m no stranger to the mad rush in the Eleventh Hour!  The most stressful part right now is to balance all the extra things that come with Fashion Week, on top of an already busy time of year for all my team and I.
 

How do you stay organised throughout the pre fashion week craziness & how do you manage your workload? - fill us in on your personal tips.

 
I have to admit I’m a little late to the party when it comes to systems that help my life stay organised. I don’t have a go to approach as such, I suppose I try and stay organised by sticking as close to my daily routine as I can. I have a time for emails etc set aside and pre planned. Of course it often gets away from me and there never seems to be enough time in the day. I may need one of your glorious dairy’s to keep on top of things!

 
What does a typical day look like over NZFW?

 
For our team it’s business as usual. We are gearing up for production of Season 4, which always requires a lot of preparation. I have some events planned which I’m excited for because it always feels great to support the other talent in New Zealand. I think the best part of this week really is to celebrate these talented people who are working hard to show their work to everyone. We all have that in common and it can be scary. New Zealand is a small country so it feels good when you can get to know everyone who is doing the same thing as you.
 

How are you planning to celebrate post event?
 

I have a trip planned to Queenstown which I’m really looking forward to. I hear i’m there just in time for Mardigra which is also a big bonus. I’m looking forward to a decompress and catch up with my Gal pals.

KATE SYLVESTER

Tell us a bit about the brand - How did it all begin and how did you know the time was right to start?

The idea began when my partner Wayne and I were living in Paris. We wanted to return to New Zealand and start something of our own. Making clothes has always been my passion so I’m incredibly lucky that I have been able to do what I love every day.

Describe the brand in 4 words

Intelligent, eccentric, modern femininity

What has been the biggest challenge to date? and your biggest highlight to date?

Highlight- celebrating 21 years of business in 2014.

What has been the one piece of advice you received that has stayed with you through the years? And what one piece of advice would you give a budding designer?

 That design is a discipline. And how important it is to have a drivers licence! These are both things I learnt along the way.

What's the inspiration behind your collection for NZFW this year? What can we expect to see?

I don’t want to spoil the surprise as revealing our concept is one of the most exciting elements of a Kate Sylvester show. I can say the collection is called Electric Dreams…

How are you finding the lead up to the show and how are you handling the stress and workload? Will you be working on the range right up to the last minute?!

I am feeling calm and excited. I am really thrilled with where we are at so far so I’m looking forward to seeing it all come together on Thursday!

How do you stay organised throughout the pre fashion week craziness & how do you manage your workload? - fill us in on your personal tips. 

I always find it valuable to write everything down so I write lists and then prioritise.

What does a typical day look like over NZFW? 

In the lead up to the show there are usually last minute fittings with models flying in just before NZFW. We have a few final bits and pieces to make up to finish the outfits off and then it’s just organising all the looks to make sure it runs smoothly on the day. 

How are you planning to celebrate post show?

Some drinks with the Kate Sylvester team and friends after the show followed by a sleep in!

Keep an eye out on my Instagram for all my outfit updates + highlights from the NZFW shows this week. xx