Military aesthetic inspires young designer
‘‘I'm incredibly honoured to represent AUT Art and Design Faculty who has given me a great base of knowledge about the industry.’’
And because she doesn’t create samples first, there’s a lot of pressure on Marage to get it right the first time.
‘‘I don’t do prototyping, as calico just won’t work; so I try to do the final one as I go. It’s a lot of pressure. it takes three days to make one of the bags.’’
Marage said showcasing her collection alongside New Zealand’s established fashion designers was an incredible opportunity.
‘‘I’m incredibly honoured to represent AUT Art and Design Faculty who has given me a great base of knowledge about the industry.
‘‘AUT have arranged the models. We just need to get ourselves ready. I’ve never been to fashion week before, so it’s extra cool.’’
Now studying honours, Marage said she was thinking about completing her masters as well.
‘‘AUT has supported me so much. It’s like my home right now. The people I’m around are really inspirational.’’
With her career plans now firmly in place, Marage said she was so grateful to her parents for bringing her family to New Zealand.
‘‘It’s so peaceful. I’m so glad my parents brought me here and gave me the freedom to do what I love to do.’’
NZFW runs from August 28 to 31 for trade, before NZ Fashion Weekend invites the public to join from September 1 to 3. Thanushi’s collection will be showcased on August 30 at midday.