I got to run a few questions past the very busy stylist/photographer Imogen Wilson about her work for Huffer at NZFW last year. She was so busy at the time that she answered them on a train somewhere outside of London…

What season is Huffer showing?

Huffer showed Autumn Winter 2017

What was the brief for your styling?

We based the brief around the recent campaign we did called “Huffer Local”. The campaign was based around the Huffer community- The friends, the colleagues and the creatives. The campaign was all about individual style and character – the cast was a mix of regular Huffer models, street kids, old friends and local legends. This idea was referenced back into the show. We had an amazing cast of around 38 models, all styled different to one another based around their own personal style.

What would you say are your influences for the styling of this collection?

I’m big on streetwear but obviously it can only be worn so many ways. For me it’s about layering, colour combinations, accessories like neck scarfs, caps, beanies, badge and jewellery.

Who did you work with on the show? 

Ngahuia Williams and Angela Bevan worked on the casting, with input from Steve, Aimee and I. That was the main point of difference for our show. Richard Kavanagh (and his Redken team) and Kiekie Stanners (and her M.A.C team) helped us execute the individual style brief, every model had a slightly different hair and makeup look. They both nailed it. Olivia Renouf my assistant totally saved me too!

Do you think your photographers eye affects how you style?

Definitely. I have been styling for a few years and only just started taking photos a year ago. People always pick up on my distinct colour choices in both photos and styling work -I’m really particular with my colour combinations. All the colours in a photograph or an outfit have to work together, while still looking really natural and effortless. From the hair clips to the socks, it’s all got to look good.

What is/are your favourite piece/pieces from this collection?

I personally love the hoodies. I wear hoodies most days and the Huffer ones are super good quality, which is hard to find. For something more girly, I love the black and white gingham tank dress.

Who inspires you internationally?

I don’t follow many people religiously, it’s too hard to keep up. The few people I do admire are Tyrone Lebon (Photographer), Ashley Williams (Designer), James Jebbia from Supreme and Mikey Alfred from Illegal Civ for being an all round legend.

Who inspires you here in New Zealand?

Nobody in particular but I must say there are a lot of kiwis friends doing really cool things at the moment and working really hard. I think the younger creative community that I belong in is finally being taken seriously both locally and internationally which is cool. Everyone’s working really hard and helping each other out along the way, it’s nice.

Photographs by the seriously talented Michelle Weir of StudioWeir

Editors notes