Designers: Jamil and Alia Juma (brother/sister)
Where: hpgrp gallery 529 West 20th St.
When: Sept 13
What goes into prepping for a show south of the border? It involves casting models and finding a good time slot where there isn’t another 10 designers showing their line.
We have to do model castings, set design and location scouting for the event as all of it is important for the vision of the show and brand.
We also have a great team including our make up artists, hair people and production team so the job goes very smoothly.
How do you perceive the American/global reception for a Canadian designer at NYFW? I think NYFW is the epicentre of fashion and that is why we are here.
The reception for a Canadian designer is the same reception they give for any designer. You have to earn it and show something unique and authentic. It’s not geo-specific but something that has to resonate with the international audience.
Which designers are you excited to see? Do you go see any? We dont see any as we are too busy prepping for our own event. We do however wish well to the young indy brands as those are always the most interesting.
What do you love about NYFW? What do you hate? We like the intensity. It drives and pushes us.
We hate having to worry about other things outside the event such as running a business. Wish it could all be about the event and the clothes.
What’s the best part about coming home? We are going to be in New York and China for the next little while, so it will be some time before we get home. But we look forward to seeing family and friends and doing absolutely nothing. That is the best part!
Read more local designers at NYFW: Cloe Comme Parris | Muttonhead | Pink Tartan | Juma | Label
