Since graduating top of her class at Whitecliffe College and launching her label Maggie Marilyn on Net-a-Porter in September 2016, breakout New Zealand designer Maggie Hewitt’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric.
Consistently capturing the attention of the international fashion media with her unique brand of ‘liveable luxury’, the 23-year-old is naturally a favourite of the local fashion industry as well — an intimate selection of whom were invited to toast the designer’s success at a special New Zealand Fashion Week luncheon. There, Maggie spoke to FQ about her first NZFW experience, and shared details of her forthcoming resort 2018 collection.
2017 marks your first appearance on the NZFW schedule. How did the lead up compare to other international fashion weeks you’ve been a part of?
We hosted a press lunch during Australian Fashion Week earlier this year and it was such a wonderful experience so I thought it would be nice to do something similar in New Zealand. As we are not showing a new collection the lead up was pretty relaxed!
What is your main focus this NZFW?
To spend time with the New Zealand fashion market. It is extremely important to me to be present in New Zealand so I’m enjoying catching up with everyone.
What collection did you most recently show to buyers and what can you tell us about it?
In July we showed our resort and spring/summer 2018 collection in Paris. It features a lot colourful, custom striped prints and I’m really excited about it.
What happens at a buying appointment?
We normally sit down and go through the look book, explaining the inspiration, fabrics and anything that’s special. Buyers know what their clients like so they go through the collection and make a selection that they would like to see on the fit model. It is always interesting to see the different pieces people choose and fall in love with.
Today you are hosting an exclusive lunch. What’s your dream lunch menu?
I would have to say a tasty beef lasagne and pork crackling.
Where are your favourite spots to eat around Auckland?
Anywhere with sunshine, oysters, and a great cheese board!
Have you attended any NZFW shows?
I attended Wynn Hamlyn’s show which I was super excited for. I love his use of fabrics and am obsessed with his knitwear.
What do you hope to see other Kiwi designers doing for AW18?
I would love to see some more colour in New Zealand. I am a little over black, colour feeds your soul.
What can we expect from you come AW18?
Currently I am designing pre-fall and autumn/winter 2019 as we work to northern hemisphere timing. I have a few patterns-on-patterns and a real mix of fabric weights, which I love when styling.
Your Resort 2018 collection drops in November. What are your three favourite pieces and how will you be styling them?
I have a houndstooth suit which I am obsessed with! The blazer has a ruffle around the neck and flared godets in the front, and the pants are easy but super flattering. I love pairing this with the ‘Sunshine’ cami for a pop of colour. Easy and effortless, but also empowering.
What’s your fashion week survival tip?
My beanie!
Your appointments have run over and you have an evening event to get to. What’s your trick for taking an outfit from day to night?
A statement earring and a red lip, always.
