Interview: @whoeverannikais aka Annika Nielsen
I met Annika online (isn't that how most things work these days?) and then actually met her IRL on my last trip down to Melbourne, where we discussed all things inclusive and sustainable fashion, Australian Fashion VS the US and just general fashion things. Annika came up to Sydney for Australian Fashion Week, so we had to meet up and have another chat, as well as play dress ups in the robes.
Lucy: Tell everyone a bit about yourself and what you do.
Annika: I'm Annika and I'm a plus size content creator and curator of colourful fashion! I love sharing sustainable fashion, op shop finds, DIYs, and dressing for fun and comfort!
L: How would you describe your personal style?
A: Wearable maximalism! Haha I love a good colour combination, fun silhouettes, cut outs, and just creating shapes with fashion, but it's wearable! I still love to be comfortable in my outfit choices and able to move easily throughout the day.
L: What is your favourite type of clothing to wear?
A: I call it my 'style equation' where it's the same type of outfit, but you can basically copy and paste individual silhouettes. I love a wide leg pant, crop top, and jacket and I wear that every. single. day.
L: You attended Australian fashion week - how was it, as a plus-sized person?
A: At AFW, I think I went in knowing that i wouldn't see much size diversity among the runways. But I've come to understand that I know that I'm not showing up for the brands because they're not the ones who support me. I show up for all the people who think that they don't belong in the space and who think that they aren't welcome in the fashion community because of how they look.
L: What do you love most about Australian fashion?
A: I actually love that Australian fashion equally loves tailored and structured pieces and colourful vibrant prints! There's so much that you can do with both and I think there's so much to be discovered in Australian Fashion.
L: What do you think is missing from Australian fashion?
A: It's the obvious answer but I think that Australian fashion is missing inclusivity among all aspects. There's not enough size inclusivity, racial diversity, ability diversity, and showing that everyone deserves accessible fashion.
L: I’ve told you a little bit about the next collection I’m designing (clothing - dresses, tops, shirts, pants, t-shirts) - what are you most excited about?
A: I'm SO EXCITED for dresses and pants! I love a good wide leg pant but I think your dresses are going to be amazing and so good for the community!!
L: What music or podcasts are you listening to right now?
A: I have really been getting into girl pop and RuPaul's music - I know I'm late to the party!
L: What’s your coffee/tea order?
A: Iced long black always! Even if it's 5 degrees, I'll be shivering with my icey bev😂