KEY POINTS:
Generation Y should probably be renamed Generation Slash, because these days no self-respecting 20-something would be caught dead having only one career path. Serena Fagence could well be the epitome of Generation Slash. The 22-year-old launched her own namesake unisex label earlier this year, does freelance styling and photography for indie publication 1AM magazine, and designs clothes for musicians including Bionic Pixie, Charlie Ash and The Naked and Famous. Fagence is also set to start up a monthly club night at the K Road Ballroom, starting on November 15. "It's all about dressing up crazy, dancing to the hottest music and having the most awesome times ever."
Who are your favourite designers?
Lonely Hearts, Zambesi, Karen Walker, Gareth Pugh, Viktor and Rolf and Comme des Garcons.
How do you define the word fashionable?
Fashionable is being innovative, clever and quirky about what you're wearing. It is all about taking a mix of garments and accessories to create a complete look created by you.
Dress to impress who?
I dress for myself and decide what I am wearing by my mood and feeling. I only ever seem to have 10 minutes usually to get ready so its usually very spontaneous.
What is your most cherished item?
That would be my mum's silvery necklace that looks like a mysterious flask of some sort, and her hot pink beret that she wore when she was pregnant with me.
What do you feel best wearing?
I feel best wearing one of my own designs, such as a dress, tights and jacket and really high platform soled shoes, oh and of course a cheeky smile.
The best sartorial advice you have ever had?
Is stay true to yourself. Dress as an individual, show personality.
Any style icons?
M.I.A and Peaches. When I was in Wellington for the Peaches concert she showed me all her amazing outfits. I love her electric, edgy feel. M.I.A dresses with total attitude.
What's your biggest indulgence/guilty pleasure?
Fabric shopping, I am obsessed! I have to go all the time. I am always after the next texture, colour, pattern...
Who or what inspires you?
I find people are the most inspirational as I work with many people on diverse projects. Locally that includes Zoe Fleury aka Bionic Pixie, Rosie Rigger from Charlie Ash, Shaun McGill, Sam McCarthy, Glenn and Amanda Hunt from 1AM magazine, designer and model Blaire Archibald, model James Nola and DJ and barista Sharan.
What has been your best fashion bargain?
I enjoy treasure-hunting. I love surprise finds, it's often when I am not really looking that something amazing appears. I found a beautiful pink girlie skirt and bright gold Chanel bag when I was in Wellington for the World of Wearable Arts show.
What is your favourite shop?
Oui Boutique in St Kevins Arcade, where I stock my unisex collection, Myhart in O'Connell St, Jetset Bohemian in Grey Lynn and Wunderkammer on Ponsonby Rd.
Favourite shop elsewhere?
Don't Come, in Melbourne, is a store and gallery, but before you get to that shop via the spiralling stairs is Marais, which showcases exquisite and innovative designers.
Favourite fashion accessory?
I have lots of ultimate favourites, including my black headband with a brooch attached that my mum made for me. Hats, scarves and gloves are a must, all the time.
What can't you live without?
Music that inspires me, fabric that motivates me, friends and family that support me and the love that holds it all together.
Biggest fashion mistake?
No mistakes just experiments and one-offs - hey if it felt right at the time then there is no regretting.
When I was in high school I wore?
At school I would brighten it up by wearing rainbow knee-high socks under my long pants and if I was feeling really girlie, bright nail polish and sparkly eye makeup.
