Arcachat

Statuesque designer Techie German- Hagedorn speaks to Maurice Arcache and gives us some style tips and her opinion on copycats

Maurice Arcache candidly chats with Techie Hagedorn about her personal style and design philosophy

Hello palanggas, am going to start right off the bat. What’s your reaction when people don’t like your design? I’m really okay with it. I can’t please everybody. Or worst when other designers copy your look? It’s a cutthroat industry so it’s par for the course, I guess. You just always need to be a step ahead of the r est. I see you at a lot of social events and photos; do you think there is such a thing as overexposure? Absolutely. What’s something you see in your mum’s generation that the younger generations seem to be lacking today? Social manners. It’s sad to see families or friends hanging out but not speaking to each other. Everyone is glued to a gadget or tuned out wearing earphones. When you are with your “besties,” are you the type who gives the gossip or listens to it? Definitely both! I’m a giver and a receiver! Why do you think we click? Because we are both naughty and nice. No filtres when we are together. We definitely verbalise our thoughts with no fear of judgement. From a Peter Pan sort of girl, you are now a staple on many a Best Dressed list. What three style tips can you give our women readers? 1) Whatever it is that you wear, own it and wear it with confidence; 2) Dress appropriately for your age. There’s nothing worse than a mini skirt on a 60 year old. Sagging knees are a no-no; 3) Comfort is the key. If it doesn’t fit you well, don’t wear it. Do you like my style? What style advice can you give me? Yes, I love your style. Don’t change a thing! You turned a hobby into a dress shop, made a name with your simple but elegant-looking clothes, and have become a favoured designer by the well-heeled crowd. Congratulations! Thanks. It takes a lot of hard work, determination—and wine! What outfit would you design for me? A flamboyant caftan. Name several women you would like to dress up. I’m already dressing them, haha! Name several of your style icons. Olivia Palermo, Diana Vreeland, Cate Blanchett, and Carolina Herrera. You and your husband, Philip, still look so much in love. What is the secret to your lasting relationship? Communication and lots of…imagination and creativity. What was the craziest thing you have done in your life? Too many to remember. What was the biggest lie you have ever told? As your famous line goes, “My lips are sealed!”