We were recently thrilled to work with talented designer and recent graduate Grace Alateras. Her bold aesthetic and print designs caught our attention in 2016 as Grace was developing her collection for a salon fashion show. A true creative, Grace demonstrates unique print design that is not only striking but speaks about commercial influences in the fashion world. Great design is so often born not in beauty, but in visual commentary about the social environment we live in.
1. Tell us about your background, where did you study and what achievement are you most proud of?
I’m a Melbourne fashion nerd, fresh outta RMIT where I graduated from the Bachelor of Fashion (Honours) Program last November. Its been a bit of a whirlwind since about June last year when my graduate collection begun to spark the attention of creatives, friends and industry alike. I’d say the achievement I’m most proud of to date is a salon showcase entitled The Line Up which I co-produced with talented designer friends Madeleine Sinco, Katie Barter, Victoria Bliss and Alinda Tralongo. The event involved an intimate runway on a warehouse rooftop in the Melbourne CBD followed by an exclusive exhibition, where our work was installed in a gallery setting. It was a privilege to work with such a dedicated and talented bunch and the result was extremely rewarding. It taught me a hell of a lot about myself as a designer, a team player and leader – and also set me up really well for future collaborations and creative projects.
2. Describe your design aesthetic?
My design aesthetic explores youth culture and concepts of commercial branding within genres of sports and streetwear. Bold, detailed, functional and hybrid are words that spring to mind.
3. What does 2017 have in store for you?
2017 has definitely kicked off with a bang! I’ve just finished up on a dream collaboration with Next State, Albert Zippers and emerging musican Ecca Vandal (check her out!) to create a custom made boiler suit for St Jeromes Laneway Festival. This project was born via Instagram and inspired by a key piece from my graduate collection entitled Eponymous. Ecca has such amazing stage presence and attitude which is so crucial to streetwear culture today – she was an ideal partner for me and allowed me some amazing exposure to Melbourne youth via the Laneway stage.
I think collaboration is going to be integral for me this year – it is after all the heart of design.
Photography by Matt Warrell and Jaz Meadows Imagery