Second Life The Who What Wear Podcast: Designer Emilia Wickstead on Modern Femininity, Bespoke Bridal, and Cinematic World-Building Through Clothes
Jun 11, 2025
Emilia Wickstead, a New Zealand-born designer based in London, is celebrated for her playful take on modern femininity. In this conversation, she shares her early fashion influences, from her artist mother's creativity in Auckland to transformative moments in Milan. Wickstead discusses her artistic process, inspired by film and fine art, and her passion for empowering women through fashion. She also reveals exciting details about her bespoke bridal designs and upcoming collaborations, including unique wedding attire and elegant invitations.
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Early Fashion Influence
- Emilia Wickstead grew up surrounded by fashion through her mother, a designer and pattern maker.
- Watching clients and seeing women dressed elegantly deeply influenced her design sense from an early age.
Youthful Style Evolution
- Emilia expressed strong personal style from a young age, dressing herself in varied and bold ways.
- Moving to Milan at 14, she was inspired by the city's beauty and femininity, transforming her style yet again.
Milan Fashion Awakening
- Moving from New Zealand to Milan exposed Emilia to legendary designer stores and fashion culture for the first time.
- She absorbed design details as a 'homework' task, dreaming of her future in fashion.