With a fashion designer for a grandmother, it's not surprising Sarah Chapman is inspired by the stylish fabrics from yesteryear.
Attention fashion students: simply asking a designer if he or she needs help can lead to a job - just ask Sarah Chapman. She is the design assistant and retail manager for Juliette Hogan, who she first began working with a couple of years ago. Chapman was working at vintage store Jetsetbohemian while studying fashion design at AUT when Hogan came into the store. "I recognised her and asked her if she needed any help," she says.
Working in fashion is in Chapman's blood: her 95-year-old grandmother, Runa Chapman, was a fashion designer in the 1950s with her own label, Coronet. The younger Chapman looks to her for inspiration: "She has a classic style and always looks immaculate."
As for Chapman's own style, if she is working in the store she will dress up in one of her Juliette Hogan dresses; and it's all about practicality when she's out the back in the workroom. "If we are finishing off a range I don't pay much attention to my outfits ... I will wear jeans and one of my boyfriend's tees." She tells us more about her style.
Who are your favourite designers?
Viktor & Rolf because they always surprise me. I like Dion Lee because of his sophisticated pattern-cutting. Locally, Juliette Hogan (of course), and also Matthew Nash because of his unisex bags and great menswear.
Your favorite accessory?
My rosebud pendant from the Takapuna Markets. It looks like a real rosebud dipped in gold.
Who does the best shoes?
I really like Tristan Blair's shoes for their interesting shapes and the pale hues. I also like Kathryn Wilson because she designs interesting heels as well as flats.
What was the last item of clothing you bought?
A long-sleeve vintage polka dot dress with a lace collar from Jetsetbohemian.
What do you want to buy next?
I'm on the hunt for a nude clutch.
Whose wardrobe would you most like to raid?
Madeline Vionnet for her backless and bias-cut dresses and Coco Chanel for her costume jewellery collection.
The one rule you always dress by?
Always feel comfortable in what you are wearing.
You feel best wearing?
Any of my Juliette Hogan pleated dresses.
Most cherished item?
Some of the fabrics my grandmother worked with in the 50s. The prints are beautiful and the quality of them is amazing.
Favourite fashion moment in film?
The ball scene from Labyrinth. I love both Jennifer Connelly and David Bowie's outfits.
Most overrated item in fashion?
High, high heels. If you can't walk in them, why bother?
How would you describe your style?
I mix it up with new and vintage. Feminine but other days tomboy. I have quite a few items in my wardrobe that are reminiscent of the 80s. I love high-waisted jeans and shoulder pads.
Describe the best outfit you've ever worn.
When I dressed up as an aerobics instructor for a dress-up party, complete with sweatbands and slouch socks.
What's in your handbag?
Lucas pawpaw, hand cream, bobby pins, tape measure, pins.
What is your favourite decade, style-wise?
I like the 1950s' silhouette of fitted bodice with the full skirt. I also love 1920s' backless, dropped waist and beaded dresses.
