Examiner.com recently spoke with Fashion Designer Dalia MacPhee who divulged with us her new Spring collection, her inspirations, and more…
Q: At what point did you know you were born to be a designer?
A: That’s a great question. In answer to that, I’m still waiting for that moment. This is such a humbling business and to be in a field inhabited by great artists such as Oscar de la Renta, Valentino, Zac Posen, I wouldn’t feel right saying I was born to be a designer just yet. But you’ll be the first to know when I claim that statement!
Q: Your dresses for the collection are environmentally conscience with the idea of being ‘Vegan’ what influenced this idea?
A: When I was living in New York I was spending time with some influential fashionistas who were also very socially conscious. Several of them were avid Vegans and explained how hard it was to find amazing dresses that were Vegan. Vegan also means Silk Free because silk is made by killing the silk worm. I saw a need [and] jumped in.
Q: Describe your personal style in three words?
A: Classy. Edgy. Sexy.
Q: What was your source of inspiration behind the Spring 2013 line?
A: I wanted to create a fresh spin on the line while still keeping its signature feel. Romance, Grown Up.
Q: What is your favorite dress from the Spring/Summer 2013 line?
A: Orange strapless lace gown.
Q: During the creative process behind your Spring/Summer line did you ever have an a-ha moment? If so what was the result of it?
A: Yes. I was traveling abroad having what I guess you would call a designer’s block, and couldn’t figure out how I was going to create 65 fresh new styles for the Spring. I walked into a fabric shop and found some brand new, beautiful fabrications and got re-inspired. To me, a great fabric whispers to you what it wants to be when it grows up. I had the shop owner cut me sample yardage from about 25 rolls that I liked, took them back to my hotel, and designed the first 35 styles that night.
Q: Your designs features sizes that range from 0 to 24, did you feel it important to include curvier sized women into your clientele?
A: I feel it’s the most important aspect to my line. I was actually featured in a 2 page spread in USA today, talking about the importance of stylish, well fitting plus size clothing. Did you know that 62% of American women wear a size 14 or above and approximately 65 million women in the USA are considered plus size? Most women have women’s bodies which includes curves and it’s our job as designers to recognize that and create styles that will fit and accentuate the bodies of the majority of women. Some of my curvier clientele who have rocked DALIA MACPHEE include Niecy Nash, Serena Williams, and Glee’s Amber Riley.
Q: What kind of music are you listening to at the moment?
A: Sigur Ros
Q: Who is your ideal muse?
A: Still looking!
Q: How does it feel when you see a celebrity wearing one of your gorgeous designs on the red carpet?
A: It always feels gratifying but the best is when I am randomly somewhere and unexpectedly see a celebrity wearing one of my pieces. I kind of joke that my dresses are like where’s Waldo-- you just never know when they’re going to show up!
Dalia MacPhee line of stunning gowns can be purchased at fine retailers nationwide
www.daliaonline.com
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