Theresa Brady has always had a love of fashion. "Being the youngest of four children I inherited a lot of hand-me downs and would adore styling them into something individual and uniquely me," she says.

"As a teenager I would fossick through op-shops for vintage clothes and experiment with remaking them in to outfits I would wear myself, and later, sell at market."

Brady took on the position of General Manager of Urban Creative in 2000, working closely with then-owner Steve Ingram on all aspects of the business including design. In 2005 she was inspired to create Sable & Minx, boutique streetwear for the sophisticated woman with Brady's retro, classic and timeless touches. Theresa Brady has always had a love of fashion. "Being the youngest of four children I inherited a lot of hand-me downs and would adore styling them into something individual and uniquely me," she says.

"As a teenager I would fossick through op-shops for vintage clothes and experiment with remaking them in to outfits I would wear myself, and later, sell at market."

Brady took on the position of General Manager of Urban Creative in 2000, working closely with then-owner Steve Ingram on all aspects of the business including design. In 2005 she was inspired to create Sable & Minx, boutique streetwear for the sophisticated woman with Brady's retro, classic and timeless touches.During what hours of the day do you feel most inspired?
I am a morning person, so always early morning, just waking up is my best time for ideas.

How would a good friend describe your aesthetic or style?
Classic with a twist, always love interesting details.

What aspect of your creative practice gives you the biggest thrill?
When a new design works and sells well and people comment positively about it.

Do you like to look at the big picture or focus on the details?
Both, I work both ways all the time.

What's your number one business tip for surviving (and thriving) in the creative industries?
Be thoughtful and respond to change, and listen to your gut instinct. Adaptation is the only way to survive.

Which of your projects to date has given you the most satisfaction?
Starting my own fashion label (Sable&Minx) and it being successful and thriving within its first year.

Who or what has inspired you recently?
Goldfrappe's latest album, it really moved me and made me feel very passionate and inspired.

How did you get started in fashion?
I always made clothes for fun - then I started working at Urban Creative as the Sales and General Manager and contributed to design until I started Sable&Minx. I began designing both labels and took over the company a year ago.

Describe your collections and what inspired it.
The winter 09 Sable&Minx collection was inspired Bonnie Parker from thirties crime duo Bonnie and Clyde, she was a sometime poet, thwarted creative living in a time of limited opportunities. She had spunk.

How much work goes into showing at fashion week?
It is not just showing a collection, it is designing a show that entertains and hopefully interests and inspires people. There is so much effort behind the scenes to get a show together to reflect the feel of a range, music, lighting, accessories etc. It is lots of meetings and hours of extra planning.

What tips do you have for designers aspiring to show at fashion week?
Build in as much time and extra help as you can. You really need a good supportive team behind you and be aware that with hidden extras it costs more than you think.

What are your plans for the future? What do you see yourself and your label doing five years from now?
I am working on growing into offshore markets and developing a solid team of people to grow our ranges in design and production.

What are your hopes for the future of the New Zealand fashion industry?
That we can show what we do on a global platform.

What challenges does the industry face?
Competition with chainstores and the increasing costs of production.

Why is fashion week an important event for the New Zealand fashion industry?
It is a platform for New Zealand designers to show what we do to the public, buyers, media and distributors, and build a strong reputation for good design.

If you could go back and choose a completely different career path to the one you've chosen, what would it be?
Teaching, I have a passion for education and inspiring others.

What place is always with you, wherever you go?
Anawahta Beach on the west coast of Auckland, my childhood holiday beach.

What's the best way to listen to music, and why?
By myself in my room so I can fully appreciate and enjoy it.

You are given a piece of string, a stick and some fabric. What do you make?
A toy for my cat.

What's the best stress relief advice you've ever been given?
Breathe in positivity, breathe out negativity.

What's great about today?
It's a chance for a new opportunity.

What's your big idea for 2008?
To embrace the day!

LABEL PROFILE
Sable & Minx is a boutique streetwear label for women who want elegant yet wearable pieces that fit into the New Zealand urbanwear aesthetic and provide wardrobe basics without compromising on fit, fabric and features. The collections are heavily influenced by historical detailing, and develop organically according to the wants and needs of the Sable & Minx woman. "My goal is to create charming and enviable clothing that makes a wide variety of stylish women feel excited about fashion," says designer Theresa Brady.

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02/10/08