Kiri Nathan's designs fuse Maori and European cultures.
Kiri Nathan is a fashion designer and finalist in Villa Maria Cult-Couture 2010. Her namesake line reflects Maori and European cultures with gowns that combine contemporary fabrics and glamour with traditional techniques like raranga (weaving) and korowai (Maori cloaks). Nathan is largely inspired by fabrics when designing. "Fabric speaks to me," she smiles. "I'm like the fabric whisperer or that little kid from The Sixth Sense. It's sensual, in the way a fabric falls, while the textural properties will dictate which direction I take design-wise".
It's family, however, which has proven to be most influentional. "Grandma has been my most influential impression on fashion - she has given me perspective on fashion and life." The Cult-Couture finalist tells us more about her personal style.
* Villa Maria Cult-Couture at TelstraClear Pacific Events Centre, Manukau, October 29. Tickets from ticketdirect.co.nz or 0800 4 TICKET.
Who are your favourite designers?
Shona Tawhiao and Czarina Wilson - talented New Zealand designers who work outside the box and are true to their vision. Marchesa, because I love just about everything that the co-founder Georgina Chapman designs. Elie Saab who is a master of his trade and has a wonderful way of expressing himself through his gowns.
What was the last item of clothing you bought?
A 100 per cent wool, three-quarter length cardy wrap from Grab.
What item of clothing do you want to buy next?
Something in size 10!
What's the one thing everyone should have in their wardrobe?
A correctly fitted bra and a great pair of shoes.
Your favourite shop?
I have so many but they're all fabric shops. My children roll their eyes if we walk into a fabric shop because they know I could be hours.
How do you define the word "fashionable"?
The great thing about fashion these days is no matter what your flavour you're going to fit in somewhere, or if not fitting in is your gig then there'll be somewhere for that too. Confidence is essential and you feel that way when being true to yourself.
What is your beauty routine?
Try to get more than three hours sleep a night in between children waking or jumping into our bed. I use Dr Hauschka products when I remember.
Whose wardrobe would you most like to raid?
Carrie Bradshaw of course. Have you seen her shoerobe?
You feel best wearing?
Something comfortable, elegant and usually in tones of green or brown.
Most cherished item?
My children. Although they're a little noisy at times, they're fantastic accessories.
How would you describe your style?
My personal style completely depends on which hat I'm wearing on the day, whether it be the mum hat or designer hat. All hats are worn on top of some attempt at being comfortable.
Who is your ultimate fashion plate?
Donna Karan.
What's in your handbag?
Nappies, wipes and Dr Hauschka lip balm.
What is your favourite decade, style-wise?
Vintage - designs from the 1930s and 1950s.
How long does it take you to get ready in the morning?
30 seconds.
Describe the best outfit you've ever worn.
A black leather full-length dress by Shakti, Kim Fraser and Marie Scully, in a fashion show in the early 1980s. The cobra head sat on top of your hand as the rest of the skin followed the line of your arm and wrapped your body. They were a formidable design team who pushed the boundaries and had the highest standards of construction.
