How did you get into fashion design?

After living in Italy for 6 years, I was inspired by their way of lifestyle and sense of fashion, upon my return I started to design.

Where did you go to school? What did you study?

I attend MSIT here in Brisbane, a fashion Tafe course. We studied all aspects of the fashion industry, from production to marketing, to design and concept

Did you have to train or apprentice with another designer? How was that?

No I went solo from day one, so I'm my own boss, apprentice trainer.

What inspired you to get into fashion design?

Life in Italy

Describe your philosophy about the art of fashion.

Dress to express not to impress, as expressing one's style will impress anyway

What about fashion as a business?

It’s a tough gig, the fashion industry is a cut throat one, many labels, a lot of competition in such a small market. Be passionate, work hard and dream..

What skills do you need to be a fashion designer?

Every skill a man needs... a great eye, determined, focused on the future, networking, passionate & able to visualise ideas and turn them into reality

What do you do during the day?

I spend 3 days a week in my boutique, the other days im in my studio working on new concepts, designing, marketing myself to the consumer, gaining PR exposure. Each day is different

What inspires your designs?

Life, love & anything that is creative or beautiful

Can you say a few words about your cultural background? Does being European (Turkish or Italian) give you an advantage or disadvantage?

I think at times yes, but at the end of the day it's about your own persona. Being cultured with different influences helps you see beyond your local surroundings, it gives you an understanding of how my family's background grew and evolved with hard times. One advantage being European is that I have an Italian passport, so I can live travel whenever I want to Europe..

What are your thoughts on culture vs design?

Culture makes us who we are, design makes us who we will be..

Are you able to reach the audience that hasn't been in touch with your cultural roots?

Yes and no.. a lot of our audients do follow what is happening in European fashion, but Australia being so close to Asia is more influenced on that direction.

5 cultural icons you wouldn't give up?

Food, language, beauty of our ladies, football and architecture.

If you could do anything else, what would it be?

Nothing.. just fashion

What advice do you have for young Australian-Turks who want to be a fashion designer?

Get a good education, follow your dreams and ask questions all the time.

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