News

Maker Monday #4 - Arielle Mermin

This week we asked the talented Arielle to answer our Maker Monday questions.

Read on!

YOUR NAME

Arielle Mermin

BUSINESS NAME

Arielle Mermin LTD (really had a hard time with that one!)

HOW LONG HAS YOUR BUSINESS BEEN GOING?

3 years

WHERE ARE YOU BASED?

Okato, Taranaki Population 641

Arielle in her home - image Taranaki Times paper

ARE YOU A LONE WOLF OR HAVE STAFF/HELPERS?

Wolf that needs a pack!

WHAT MAKES YOUR DESIGNS SPECIAL?

I think what makes my brand special is that I am offering NZ women lifestyle clothing from a Californian perspective. The main reason I started the label is when I moved here 7 years ago, there wasn’t anything I could identify with and wear. I felt (and still do) that the Californian and Kiwi lifestyle are so similar so I created a brand that showcases what I love and sharing it with you all.

WHAT HELPS WHEN THE CREATIVE JUICE IS FEELING SLUGGISH?

It never does. My main problem is deciding what not to use… I have way too many ideas and wish I could use them all!

IS YOUR WORKSPACE A MESS/ORGANIZED MESS/SUPER TIDY OR…..?

Chaos then spotless then chaos again-  it’s a lovely revolving pattern until the season is finished..

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE DESIGN/COLLECTION SO FAR & WHY?

This summer and next winter are my strongest seasons. I designed summer (in stores soon) when my father had passed away and it 100% is dedicated to him and celebrates his life. It’s a beautiful authentic collection. AW16 MIDNIGHT RIDER (not yet released) was inspired by the after math of losing him and I created a very luxe refined collection that truly speaks from my heart.  Starting out, my first few ranges were so riddled with worry about fitting in the NZ market and in the last year, I have focused on what I love and find the collections have grown immensely and gaining much enthusiasm.

DO YOU LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE DESIGNING/CREATING?

I listen to all sorts of music to inspire me but when I have to sketch or create, music is off and I need total silence. NOOOO distractions.

70’s rock , 60-70’s garage rock and psychedelic blues, and 60’s soul - are my main interests. Bowie, Allman Brothers, Steely Dan, Black Sabbath to Blue Cheer, the Seeds, Ramsey Lewis etc—, Current stuff (well not so current) like Dead Meadow, Dead Moon and I occasionally dip into old reggae or 90’s hip hop. I basically haven’t strayed from what I listened to from when I was in high school.

PIZZA OR BURGER?

Cheeseburger w avocado and a side of onion rings please! 

3 THINGS IN YOUR BAG YOU COULDN'T LIVE WITHOUT.

Debit card, keys and phone…I’m ridiculously no fuss. Plus I lose everything so generally just shove everything in my pockets.

ARE YOU A DESIGN LARK OR OWL?

Owl all the way…

TODAY I AM MADAME grateful PANTS. Sometimes I can have a major moan about how this job is def beyond stressful most days, I’m so lucky to have beautiful women wearing my clothes everyday and amazing stockists (like you!!) who have supported me from day one.

-Thanks Arielle!! We can't wait to have all your summer range in store!

- xclaire 

Leave a comment