Nashmin 
MM: Can you introduce your brand and yourself in a few sentences?
Erin Clare Bridal operates out of our studio on the beautiful Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia. Erin Clare designs celebrate the feminine, featuring exquisite fabrics, textures and attention to detail. They are created by our handpicked team of ateliers. Our gowns are highly sought after and distributed throughout Australia and to brides around the world. Each dress is a work of art.
MM: Can you describe your creative process?
Creating new gowns is always really exciting for me. I usually start with the feeling I am wanting to convey. It is all about drape, texture, and detail when selecting fabrics. Once selected then the fun really begins. I love challenging myself and asking the question: “how can this be better?”.
Sometimes I really fall in love with a fabric first and design around how I feel the fabric would work best. The design evolves spontaneously. A combination of thoughts, feelings and experience. Developing a concept drawing to a pattern which evolves into a beautiful gown is incredibly rewarding. it’s like bringing a dream into reality.
MM: Where do you find inspiration in your day-to-day life?
I am inspired by movement and the celebration of the female form. Bringing a dream to life gives me immense joy.
MM: What kind of questions do you ask yourself when you begin creating a collection?
I continually ask myself: “How can I improve on this idea?”.
MM: How has your work evolved since you began your own label?
I have become more confident in exploring a variety of fabrics and construction techniques that break with traditional bridal norms.
MM: How do you find working as a designer in Australia? Has the culture/surroundings affected your design aesthetic? Do you feel connected to your home?
We live in a beautiful country with pristine beaches and an immense sense of freedom. We live a refined yet relaxed lifestyle. I think this flows through our design aesthetic.
MM: What sparked your interest in fashion design?
My incredible Granny “Joan” ignited the first spark. As a small child, I would play with her fabric offcuts. My mum taught me to knit and crochet and they both encouraged me to do sewing classes. As a teen, I would create clothes for myself and my friends.
MM: How did you learn the business of fashion?
Creative drawing has always been a way of expressing my ideas. I had the constant frustration of following bought patterns and not being able to make what I imagined. When I went to study Fashion Design and learned the incredible art of pattern making, I was like a bird set free. Learning to manipulate fabrics and create exactly what I saw in my head was life- changing.
MM: What is your favourite part of being a designer? What drives you to design?
Meeting so many different women from so many walks of life and the joy of creating their wedding gown is an incredible honour. I love bringing dreams and ideas into reality.
MM: What is the inspiration behind your S/S19 collection to be showcased at Vancouver Fashion Week?
Our collection is a celebration of the female form using movement and light.