One of PledgeMe’s latest projects is by up-and-coming label, Surface Too Deep. The swimwear brand formed by aspiring fashion designers, Sarah Jane and Esther, offers adventurous textiles, inspired by the whimsical nature of friends in the summertime. A perfect excuse to hit the beach in this drought. Surface Too Deep’s ‘The Amazing Adventures of Bonnie and Belle Summer ’13/14 collection has been given the opportunity to showcase at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Australia. The Massey University designers are already over halfway to funding their Australian fashion debut. We’re definitely excited for them! Check it out here.
Surface Too Deep’s Sarah Jane answered a few questions for us.
What inspired you to become fashion designers?
I don’t think we can remember the exact point where the path of designer came up but we’re both pretty obsessed with hand crafts, textiles, prints and intricate shapes within fabric.
Who are people you especially admire in the fashion industry?
There are so many inspirational people for different reasons – Alexander McQueen RIP – Love his dark edge, Grace Coddington – the greatest stylist who has ever lived, Bill Cunningham – a man who can sum up a trend in 24 pics and nail it in words, Cybele who has taught us so much, past tutors esp. Gen Packer, Deb Cumming and Vince! And fellow designers who are out there living the dream and making it happen.
What matters to you most as a fashion designer?
Hmmm, I guess it’s really important to be offering things that are different and that make women feel good about themselves. We seriously love seeing someone try a piece on and loving their body in our swimsuit. That part is pretty amazing
What is your favourite part of conceptualizing a design?
Getting inspiration from something random – following the idea through and seeing it come to life. The shoot is definitely our favourite part – getting to style the magic and play around with props etc. It is super hard work and we’re usually totally exhausted at the end of the day but it’s always soooo exciting.
What’s your favourite item of clothing (current or past)?
Our Surface too Deep swimmers of course!
Is there anything else you would like to say about yourselves?
Esther just wants to say she loves animals – especially Kipper (That’s my dog)
How did you find out about crowdfunding?
Through a friend who has had massive success through this type of crowd funding so we searched for one that applied to us.
