Julia Kingham relishes design that pushes the boundaries.
Julia Kingham is just about to leave New Zealand to go on her OE, having previously been showroom manager at fashion and design public relations agency Ciel PR. That position allowed her to be surrounded by and inspired by local design each day. "I love to see design pushed to the edge, and over," she says.
Kingham is largely drawn to the Japanese design aesthetic, with Comme des Garcons being her favourite label, closely followed by Yohji Yamamoto and Issey Miyake - she also has a soft spot for the likes of Bernhard Willhelm, Andrea Crews, Hussein Chalayan, ffiXXed and Louise Gray, all "innovative labels pushing boundaries and making life more interesting". It's not surprising then that Kingham's appreciation of strong individual style extends to her style icons, Bjork and Tilda Swinton.
Who or what inspires you?
I love Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, for his incredible paper constructions, and fashion designer Rei Kawakubo.
How do you define the word "fashionable"?
Having a natural sense of style.
Your favourite accessory?
My D-luxe gold peace pendant and my cheese ring by Q-pot, a Japanese brand which makes fun edible looking jewellery like burger necklaces and fried egg charms.
Best fashion bargain?
While working in a recycled designer clothing store in Wellington, I collected some great bargains, mostly vintage shoes and designer tops. Many of the clothes I wear were found at op shops for a couple of dollars.
Best way to recycle your old clothes?
I either sell them on Trade Me or take them to "recycled fashion" stores; the rest end up with my sister or in a charity bin - never the rubbish bin.
What do you really want this coming season?
I've put in my summer order from Cybele: a bright red crop sweater, satellite crop tee and navy shorts. From Nyne, more navy pieces and from Jimmy D the fury crop top and vagrant shorts which have built-in leggings.
Is there anything you'd never wear?
Three-quarter pants, polka dots, pink, camo, Ugg boots, Crocs and jandals.
Your favourite shop?
In New Zealand, Children of Vision. I worked there part-time when they opened and I had just moved up to Auckland. I really appreciate the international labels James and Vicky have introduced over the seasons.
Best city for fashion shopping in the world?
Tokyo or Hong Kong.
Favourite place to hang out and people watch?
Harajuku - hang out near the LaForet department store, you will see some wild outfits.
What can't you live without?
A good book, a diary to write lists in and breakfast.
Your fashion obsession?
Yellow, blue and red: I have been obsessed with these colours for years now.
Most cherished item?
The first two clothing pieces that come to mind would be the Ann Demeulemeester waistcoat that my Aunty Anna gave me, and the Comme des Garcons top that I wore for my graduation. Otherwise, I would say my telescope, my books and my bike.
What is your favourite decade, style-wise?
The future decades - I like to imagine what clothing will be like in 2050. I hope sustainability will be at the forefront of fashion.
