The latest chapter in Maggie Hewitt's meteoric rise in the world of fashion is taking place in a private home in Wanaka, where bookings are essential for the Maggie Marilyn experience, writes Leanne Moore
Auckland fashion designer Maggie Hewitt is a dreamer and a doer who has taken something she's passionate about and made it her life's work. Maggie Marilyn, the label she launched five years ago at the age of 21, hit the world stage when it was worn by former first lady Michelle Obama and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. But Hewitt was not content to sit back and revel in her global success. She is always looking for the next step on her mission to change the world through fashion. She is determined to show that ethics and aesthetics can go hand-in-hand. For her, the long view has always been important. She wants to build something that lasts. The Maggie Marilyn Winter Pop-Up in Wānaka is the latest leg of her journey.
When did you realise you were a fashion designer?
I always knew I would end up somewhere in the creative world. I'm dyslexic, so I found school tough. I excelled in creative subjects. My mum has such a beautiful sense of style. She really is quite bold and brave. She is not afraid of colour, which is something I really admire, especially in a home. I was surrounded by that growing up and you can see that in my designs. When I studied fashion I discovered my design handwriting and found my sense of purpose. I wanted to create clothing that could empower not just the wearer but everyone involved in its making. Now I look back and think what a courageous 21-year-old. It was probably more naivete than anything else.
How important is provenance to your work?
It's everything. When I launched Maggie Marilyn five years ago I had a clear vision of what I wanted the brand to be. Working toward those goals is a marathon, not a sprint.
What is your motto?
Using fashion to create a better world.