Austin Girdlestone

Colour: Resene Kakapo

"This design is all about freedom

Running on grass barefoot… dappled light,

Leaves and twigs rustle under your feet.

Jumping, leaping… the wind rushes through to tickle your back as you run… faster and faster.

Swinging from trees and splashing in streams…

The forest floor lingers in your breath.

I wanted to create a garment that Maya would wear once she escapes the city.

She slips into the freedom to explore this new landscape.

I found the shape of the Kakapo to be quite beautiful, its bottom heavy figure and triangle silhouette. I enjoyed the idea of versatility in this garment, the sleeves being untied and removed, the bodice coming undone and the breeze curling under. Although there is no stitching at the side seams, I have allowed it to be functional with ties. The centre back is attached with a bagged out strip of gold; I see this as the backbone of Maya, her core strength. The pockets open up at the side like a gusset when putting on the pants and tie up at both the front and back allowing the wearer to grow and change with garment."

Find out more about the Resene NZ Fashion Tech Colour of Fashion.

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