Designer's solo act

Caroline Church is launching her own self-named label at this month's Fashion Week. After 13 years designing the label State of Grace with Sherilyn Catchpole, Church has decided to go solo.

"I see this move as a step forward, breaking from my well-established label to strike out, not in a complete change of direction but with a new-found independence and assurance," says the designer.

Who are your favourite fashion designers at the moment?

Can I say I really like my own new collection, or does that sound a bit arrogant? I guess Vivienne Westwood would be my all time favourite. I admire her amazing attention to minute details and her historical referencing.

Which trend won't you be wearing this season?

I don't really follow trends at all. I wouldn't dream of wearing what is currently in regardless of whether it is right for my size, age and personality. It is much more important to wear what you like and what makes you feel good about yourself.

Which trend do you think endures throughout the seasons?

I have clothes from my collections that are donkey's years old, but it doesn't matter. If something is very beautiful and well made you should be able to keep it and love it and wear it forever.

What do you wear to work?

Practical comfortable clothes that don't show the dirt, or pick up loose threads. Contrary to what people imagine, designers don't spend all day lounging around drawing pictures and drinking champagne.

What are the staple pieces for a good wardrobe?

You can never have too many pairs of black boots, and the right underwear to work with everything.

What is your failsafe look on days when you simply have nothing to wear?

Black boots (of course) a black top, and a beautiful embroidered skirt.

What do you wear when you are relaxing at home?

Whatever comes to hand. I do like my dressing-gown.

What do you wear at the weekend?

It depends what I'm doing. I love dressing up to go out, but at the same time I have been seen at the supermarket in my slippers, as I don't feel that I have to always look like a "designer".

What was your biggest fashion indulgence?

It would be my two pairs of made-to-measure black boots from Preston Zly in Melbourne. They are exquisite and unbelievably comfortable, and I just had no choice but to buy them.

What is the biggest fashion mistake you have ever made?

That would date back to the blue and white gingham bikini I made and proudly wore to school swimming.

The elastic snapped while I was in the pool with half the school watching. One-piece togs would have been so much more sensible.

What is the last item of clothing you bought?

I don't tend to buy many clothes as I wear my own label and spend the money on footwear instead. The last thing I bought was a large pile of socks.

What is your beauty routine?

Good skincare is very important to me. I spend a lot of time scrubbing and moisturising. I don't tend to wear a lot of makeup, and am guilty of not getting haircuts often enough as I get impatient if I have to spend more than an hour in a salon.

Do you have an exercise routine?

I go for an early morning walk with my dog every day. Combined with spending a lot of time rushing around at work, that's about it.

Herald Feature: Fashion Week

NZ Fashion Week