In this Career Profile, we speak to Pia Naera who is the founder of Pia Boutique and has just relaunched her brand with a 2017 collection.
Name: Pia Naera
Job Title: Founder of Pia Boutique
Company: Pia Boutique
What was the inspiration behind the relaunch?
I have always loved designing bold/eye-catching garments and after a year hiatus, it just felt like the right timing to make a come back. I’m SO excited to be back and i can tell my customers are too. The inspiration behind the relaunch collection is all about celebration featuring loads of colour, print and sequins (all the good things!).
If you could describe the new line in five words, what would they be?
Gorgeous, bold, beautiful, feminine and fun!
What does your job involve?
My job involves a lot… Designing garments and prints, customer care, social media and much more! It’s very busy, but I love it!
How did you get into this career?
I studied graphic design and at the end of my third year at Uni, I designed some printed dresses. The next year I was showing at NZ Fashion Week and now here I am, it all kind of snowballed quickly!
What are some challenges in your position?
I love pink, like really love it and everything I design happens to be pink – so I have to go through and design non-pink garments [laughs], true story! It can be challenging keeping the creative flow when there is so much else going on, so it’s important to take time out and really focus on designing. It’s my favourite thing to do but it can get put onto the back burner when my job is so busy.
What are the best perks about your job?
I often get amazing and encouraging emails from my customers, telling me how much they love their garments which honestly makes my day. Another perk is when I receive my samples back – that is seriously exciting! All the girls in the office are quick to try everything on. There is so many other things I love about my job – I’m very lucky.
What’s the hardest part?
Work and life balance can be hard. I think when you love your job so much, you don’t realise how much of your down time you spend working.
Are there any subjects at school you would recommend students to take who are interested in the industry?
I took all creative subjects at school, because that’s where my passion has always been. It was tough weighing up between studying fashion or graphic design but I’m so stoked that I took the graphic design path as now I have the best of both worlds.
What’s your favourite quote/motto?
Everything happens for a reason.
Best advice you’ve ever been given?
Surround yourself with people who support you and can see your potential.
Pia’s 2017 collection is available online with limited edition garments so head on over and nab a beautiful outfit from her range.