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FashioNZ editor Julie Roulston wasn't the only kiwi at Malaysia-International Fashion Week (M-IFW)!  Catch up with delightful multinational citizen, designer Jimmy Lim:

 

Tell us in a nutshell about Jimmy Lim the person and Jimmy Lim the label.
Jimmy Lim is a Cancerian! The label is a diary of Jimmy Lim. My collections are for those who wish to create the ultimate fashion statement and wear attitude like a uniform to give definition to their identity. Within this group, there are no boundaries and wearers carry a truly global mentality.

What made you decide to base yourself between NZ and Malaysia?
After representing New Zealand in London as the Deutz Fashion Designer Ambassador, I met Sir Jimmy Choo who mentored me and inspired me to expand into Asia. Malaysia was a natural place for expansion, as its geographical prominence within Asia has enabled many connections, and my ability to speak four languages fluently has also been a great icebreaking tool.

What is your favourite store in NZ?  Favorite designer?
As a designer myself, I am attracted to character-based stores, such as WORLD, Karen Walker, Zambesi, MyHart and Mr So and So, etc. It is hard to pinpoint a favourite store as I shop in all of them. I value and admire designers who exhibit character in their work and are not afraid to step out of the square.

You used NZ horsehair in your most recent collection - why?  How?
I have wanted to use New Zealand horsehair for a long time, but have never had a collection which suited the theme. My Spring/Summer 2010/2011 collection “The Dream Maker’s Club”, based on the teaching of “We are the makers of dreams” contains inspirations like fable characters such as unicorns, which are featured in my latest prints. Incorporating New Zealand horsehair into the collection as a mood lifter was the perfect fit, not to mention that horsehair is a very unique natural fibre which has attracted a wealth of interest.

What is the difference between being Jimmy Lim in NZ, versus in Malaysia?
I am truly grateful that I get to enjoy the best of both worlds. New Zealand is like a sanctuary for me where I let my mind flow, energise myself and work without distractions. In Malaysia, it’s more like a stage where I showcase my work on the international arena, as well as being heavily involved in promotions, events and fashion shows to build the Jimmy Lim label internationally.

What are your plans for the Jimmy Lim label?
We are very excited about our growth in 2010. With numerous projects underway it is going to be a busy year. I spend an increasing amount of time dealing with buyers via the internet. This has led to the development of the Jimmy Lim luxe online boutique, which is launching in the first quarter of the year. I have been working very closely with our web architect on the store development and programming, and I am certain our clients and buyers will value the ease of ordering and communication which the online boutique will provide. Stay tuned!

Where can we find Jimmy Lim in NZ?
The Jimmy Lim label can be found at TK Store on Ponsonby and High Street in Auckland, and at Mr. So and So in Southland. We are also adding additional stockists internationally, and remember our online boutiqueis coming early 2010 at www.jimmylim.co.nz.

 

What are your tips for NZ girls wanting to inject a little Asian spice
into their look?
Fashion has now become so global so I think we all share a bit of everything in terms of how we dress. I can’t really pinpoint a certain look but you’ll be surprised what you can find from New Zealand designers or from your own wardrobe to get that Asian spice. Basically a mix and match of colours and prints goes down well, and don’t be afraid to clash your outfits. Go innocent and cute, like Karen Walker and Kate Sylvester, whom are both strong in their cute silhouettes and fabrications. Nom D has a strong Asian origami feel to it, so wear it loose and edgy with layers. In essence, the Jimmy Lim philosophy is to ‘play without restrictions’ and create your own personal style.

 

Read FashioNZ's quick fashion and beauty questions with M-IFW supermodel Ai Tominaga here.