Just in time for the announcement of the upcoming sequel to The Devil Wears Prada, NEXUS recently sent Steve Huỳnh to sit down with and delve into the creative mind behind New Zealand Herald VIVA, Dan Ahwa, as he discusses his vision for Aotearoa’s fashion scene. Ahwa is an esteemed fashion editor, stylist, and journalist at the New Zealand Herald’s curated lifestyle, cultural, and fashion magazine.  

The fashion industry has been a significant influence in human history. It is a form of self-expression deeply connected to one’s culture and surroundings. Not only does fashion play a pivotal role in creating an identity, it also takes part in expressing solidarity and educating societal matters. And whilst the world of fashion may be lost to most people as they sift through carts and trends, those behind the scenes are integral in helping us make the right fashion choices. It’s just like Miranda Priestly said, “In fact, you are wearing a sweater that was selected for you by the people in this room from a pile of stuff.” 

In this interview, we learn how Dan Ahwa integrates sustainability and individuality into his work, as well as how he recently collaborated with other local creatives to publish an ultimate guide to Aotearoa’s capital city – Wellington. The photoshoot took place in the Grand Hall at Parliament, where they shared their personal enjoyment of the city they call home. 

                  

What is your favourite/personal aesthetic, and where do you shop?  

My personal aesthetic is a combination of many different ideas. I love artful designers like Dries van Noten who know how to mix colour and print, and then I’m a fan of preppy designers like Lemaire and Officine Générale; and then I do love streetwear. Designers like Willy Chavarria take it to an avant-garde level which I admire, but still retain a sense of culture and personality. So, I guess you can say my style veers towards classic pieces but with a unique point of view. I’m not a fan of trendy brands, just timeless. Locally, I admire the work of Thom Sussex of Thom Morrison, and the denim designs of Jacob Kalin. Denim is a staple in my wardrobe. I also like vintage collectors like Mitchell Tan of Rubbish Bin Store and Tony’s Vintage store on Karangahape Road.  

 

How do you connect individuality to your daily outfits? 

I think as I get older, I’ve become less concerned about what other people think of how I dress or look. So, to me, individuality is centred around the confidence or sense of security you harness when you get dressed every day. I think you should always dress for yourself too.

 

What is your most loved fashion sensation in the first half of 2024? 

I’m not sure if I have anything in particular that I love, but like everyone, I’m inspired by Charli XCX’s entire album rollout down to her personal style.  

 

Which was the most interesting collection in last year’s NZFW? 

The most interesting for me was possibly Rory William Docherty, who also debuted at Australian Fashion Week in May. Rory has a very timeless quality about his design ethos, and I appreciate his attention to quality.  

 

What is your vision for NZFW 2025?  

I hope that it receives the support and recognition it deserves from the government and from sponsors. How are our next generation of talented designers, producers, stylists, hair and make-up artists, and models etc. meant to find success if our biggest fashion event doesn’t get the support to help provide that necessary platform for them to thrive? It’s a training ground for a professional career in fashion – locally and internationally, so my hope is that people rally behind it to help it adapt to the times and be what it needs to be in order to evolve and continue to support our industry.  

Thank you, Dan, for joining us and sharing your advice for fashion enthusiasts and those taking their baby steps into the creative industry. It is a blessing to learn from those who came before and have paved the way for younger generations to be inspired and motivated. May your work keep on inspiring others.