Spotlight on Designer: Caldi Design

 

Pieces from emerging Perth label Caldi Design will feature in a fashion show and photography exhibition at the NW Fashion & Photo Night, Thursday 10th March 2011. Tickets available from New Work Photography.

1. Tell us about yourself.

My background is a bit unusual with my mom being from Morocco and my dad from Germany. In my early childhood we constantly moved between the two countries before settling permanently in Germany. Growing up with these totally different cultures contributed a lot to my view of design and fashion.

2. What inspired the creation of Caldi Design?

This is very simple and said by a lot of designers. I simply don’t find the clothes I like to wear in shops and always crave for something different and unique. Naturally I love designing and sewing and therefore my label was born shortly after I graduated from fashion school.  

3. How would you describe your garments?

I like to think of my garments as objects that are interesting and unique. They carry formal elements like structure, texture, contrast and yet emphasize femininity. Categorising them I find difficult, however they are best described as urban art wear. All my clothes are very wearable with attention to detail and versatility. I never follow trends, but try to develop unique designs that I find interesting to wear. My garments often have unusual details, can be worn in various ways and have strong colours.

4. What inspires you when creating a garment?

Often it starts with the fabric itself. When I go out looking for fabrics I often have no particular design in mind. Mostly the fabric ‘tells’ me what to do with it – I don’t just see rolls and rolls of cloth I see tons of ideas and possibilities what to do with it.

A new collection usually starts with an idea, observation, image or anything that might interest me. After the first one or two designs are made, they then lead me to the next piece and so forth.

5. What are your plans for 2011?

To continue to nurture my label by doing what I love doing, developing as a designer and have my range more visible locally.