We talk with SARA ASPINALL, the brainchild behind the delicious and enigmatic label COMPANY OF STRANGERS.
Dunedin-based label Company Of Strangers, was ironically born in what Sara described as an early precipitated mid-life crisis. Due to itchy feet for a new challenge, she initiated the birth after having worked at NOM*D for six years, under Margarita Robertson.
What I love the most about Aspinall's collections is the emphasis and significance of collaborating with other artists when designing her range. It is so delightful to see fashion labels encouraging the artist community, and creating opportunities for artist exposure.
How was 'Company of Strangers' born?
Out of nothing else to do at that point in time... Boredom creates creativity for me!
How did your 'passion for fashion' come about?
URRHH I hate that term! You are just born to do stuff I suppose, maybe you see your Grandmother or Mum sewing [and] it starts something? They weren't particularly into 'fashion' though. I just like to make things.
Where or whom do you draw your inspirations from?
Everywhere, people on the streets, movies, the resident street crazies, motorcycles, gangs...
Describe a 'Company Of Strangers' girl...
Someone who will wear the stuff with their own attitude, someone who isn't afraid to do what they want and wear what they want, whether it's "fashionable" or not. She's a creative girl with an independent mind, who doesn't take herself too seriously!
What is your all time favourite purchase?
I recently got a Victorian mourning ring, with human hair braided into the band. It has cut outs in the gold so you can see the hair. I love it, some people think it's creepy, I think it's nice, to love someone so much to keep a part of them close (even though I didn't know them).
What’s your must-have buy for this summer?
Marianne Singlet, I have 3! So easy to wear silk georgette, beautiful cut singlet... Probably teamed up with a vintage sleeve-bag. Great for partying!
Who would be at the top of your 'best dressed' list?
Alison Mosshart from The Kills, she's so relaxed in her style, I like it! Also, Karen O from the Yeah Yeah Yeah's.
What are three things you can't live without?
Shoes, mascara and moisturiser!
Quick tip for all those fashion fiends...
Don't forget your undies! Don't over do it! And you don't need to dress like everybody else, do your own thing!
HEART LISTENING = Warpaint
HEART WATCHING = Patti Smith - 'Dream Of Life'
HEART READING = Any biography, I love reading about other peoples lives!
HEART IN GENERAL = My bedroom, it looks over the beach and ocean I could stare out there all day & my boyfriend Bill and my girl Frankie!
[images: Company of Strangers bags + jewellery]
Auckland Stockist:
Children of Vision
St Kevins Arcade
Karangahape Rd
Carlson
122 Ponsonby Road
Grey Lynn 1011
(09) 361 2137
Zambesi
Cnr Vulcan Lane
& O'Connell St
(09) 303 1701
More stockist info HERE.
www.companyofstrangers.co.nz
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