When strolling the lineup at TVM, it's hard to miss Mahiya. It's a colourful haven of goodness lined with bright leather bags and wallets, feminine skirts and dresses in bold prints, and a stunning designer to boot.
Meet Alex, the brains and beauty behind Mahiya.
Tell us about how and when your label was created?
Mahiya was created mid 2013 when I decided to go my own way and design and create my own unique range of quality leather treasures for the modern day Bohemian woman.
What pieces are included within your range?
Leather tassel bags, wallets, footwear, iphone cases and clothing.
What is your creative background?
I was Designing for another label for 2 and a half years before Mahiya whilst also continuing working as a photographer and Stage Singer. I am always sketching and finding inspiration from all things beautiful here in Australia and during my travel internationally. I have also just started to make my own jewellery and bag charms again. I do all my own photography for Mahiya as well which keeps me busy.
Where is the label designed and made?
I do all the sketching and creating here on the gold Coast while sourcing fabrics and embellishments from around the globe and produce them overseas. All the products are hand crafted.
What inspires you?
The happiness and the kind words that I get from people when they see my designs and love them. I find inspiration from everything around me. Colours, shapes and texture can come from the most random places.
Latest collection consists of?
Luxe bohemian leather pieces with an Aztec and tribal influence through out.
What's on your mood board?
Inspirational pics from fashion, travel and interior design. I love earthy tones with splashes of colour.
What’s your creative space like?
I have an office at home but I am always coming up with ideas out and about. I love that I can just grab my computer or sketch pad and head to the beach for the day and do my work from there.
What music do you listen to while designing/creating?
I love all styles of music so I couldn’t say just one artist as I like a good mix. Usually something relaxing.
A day in the life of you consists of?
My days are always crazy busy! Up for a coffee and email and Instagram check and reply. There is always work to be done so I always try and get most of it out of the way by lunch time so I can head to the beach for a walk by the ocean. I love getting creative with photography so I will often do photo shoots and new pics for Mahiya. If I have gigs on the weekend I will be also busy learning songs.
Favourite TVM stall (besides yours of course)?
I love so many! Designs by Dust, Salte, Jewellery by Kim, The Hudson Tree, Children of the Tribe, Love St and the list goes on.
Favourite reads/blogs?
My favourite Blogger is Coconut Lemon and Lime. She always does gorgeous pics and helps promote labels which is great. I also love a good biography read!
What can we expect from the next collection/what are your plans for 2013 and beyond?
I have many plans and dreams for Mahiya. We already have 4 international Stockists and stockists around Australia which is so fantastic as we have only been up and running for just over a month. I have many new designs already underway so stay tuned over the next few months.
Why TVM?
TVM is such a great market as there is a real community feel and it attracts such a great crowd who are there to shop and support the locals.
What do you love most about attending TVM?
Whats not to love! Great labels, great people, great location! Everyone is there to support and shop local designers, the best fashion market around! A fantastic spot to launch your label and be seen so you can expand and grow your business.