“As a young girl growing up on a lifestyle block just outside Mangawhai, I was always outside in the garden with my mum or helping my dad with little projects around our property. When friends came over, we’d spend hours building huts and imagining we were living among fairies and gnomes. I always remember feeling so safe, happy, and at peace in nature. It truly protected me from the world, it was a place of comfort, freedom, and imagination.

When I was given my colour, Resene Smashed Avocado, it reminded me of that feeling, of nature, freedom and running through a meadow without a care in the world. However, now that I’m older, my perspective has changed. I’ve come to realise that it’s not me who needs protection anymore, it’s nature that needs my protection. From pollution, climate change, and overconsumption which threaten these once so sacred places.

The material being 100% silk, I felt it was the perfect match for my concept. Silk has a natural softness and flow that echoes the gentle movements found in the natural world. It’s delicate yet strong, just like nature itself. I wanted to highlight these features by using its natural drape through soft, curved lines and organic shaping.

I included a wrap element around the waist to create the feeling of a gentle hug from nature, symbolising the embrace and protection I felt as a child. The flowing lines and lack of rigid structure reflect how nothing in nature is perfectly straight or controlled, everything curves in its own way.

This piece isn’t just a tribute to the natural world I love so much, it’s a call to protect it. Through this garment, I hope to remind others of the peace nature can offer, and how it is time we give back to the world that gave us so much.”