Fashion designer HaryonoSetiadi showcased his best work yet at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Sydney 2014, with his affection for Australia’s beautiful coastline landscapes and breathtaking horizons as his main inspiration for the collection. Relying on precision tailoring and understated cuts, Setiadi’s collection lit up the catwalk with effortless and ethereal dresses featuring numerous sheer layers, draping, and overcoats. Adding a touch of the European architectural movement to the drawing board, Setiadi created garments with both structure and fluidity.
Shortly after showcasing his exquisite Spring/Summer 2014 collection, HaryonoSetiadi was kind enough to spare some time for a chat with us.
I: Tell me a little about yourself. Where are you from and what is your educational background? What are your general professional and non-professional interests?
H: I was born in Jakarta, Indonesia. I grew up and completed high school in Jakarta as well. I then continued my studies in Sydney, Australia, in my early 20’s. Professionally, I have a great interest in visual art. I am also a musician, a songwriter, and a beach lover.
I: What does fashion mean to you?
H: A palette for colors and visual art.
I: How would you define your brand?
H: Precision tailoring.
I: What was the first article of clothing you ever designed?
H: A linen dress that I colour-dyed and I then used a red zipper to create the strap detail.
I: What are some of your greatest accomplishments as a designer?
H: International distribution in various cities in US, UK, China, Taiwan, and Singapore.
I: Who are some of your favorite designers?
H: Calvin Klein, among several others.
I: What are some of your favorite clothing stores/catalogs/websites?
H: Moda Operandi, Net-a-porter.
I: What do you believe makes a quality article of clothing?
H: Construction, craftsmanship, attention to detail and finishing.
I: This issue is dedicated to arts and fashion. Do you consider yourself an artist?
H: Yes. I believe in the balance between art and commerce.
I: What matters to you most as a fashion designer?
H: Being able to communicate concepts and ideas into my surroundings.
I: How would you define your personal style?
H: Simple, casual, understated.
I: What are some of your goals in fashion?
H: Being able to grow creatively as well as in business.
I: Where do you get your inspiration?
H: [Through] science and modern art.
I: What advice do you have for aspiring fashion designers and/or artists among our readers?
H: Move slowly but surely before expanding your business. Know your market.
