INTERVIEW WITH TARIEN MALHERBE OF “NON-EUROPEAN”™

Tarien Malherbe of “non-european”™ shares her passion of designing, her drive to create a solid and well-known brand and her dream of further employing and empowering  citizens of our country. 

Here's what she had to say about her work:

What are your reasons for showcasing your products at Indiemode.co.za?
Indiemode is the first online store that will be stocking a bigger part of the non-european range. We have supplied other online stores successfully, but have never had such a big number of our items on one page at the same time.

What are your goals and what are you hoping to achieve by showcasing on our site?
We want non-european to be readily available to anyone within SA. Indiemode helps by enabling customers, who do not live close to one of our boutique stockists, to purchase non-european items in a way that is convenient to the customer. Ultimately, this will lead to our products being more accessible to others, more work coming in and thus we'll be able to employ more people to meet the growing demand.

What is your signature piece within your collection at Indiemode?
The wrap trouser is our best-selling style this season. But the twist dress has become our signature piece - it is a must-have that flatters almost any body shape. The twist dress is available in duck egg and cream.

How long have you been designing for?
I’ve been designing all my life. I believe it is something that you are born with - a desire to create. I started designing under the non-european label in 2008 after graduating from the Elizabeth Galloway Academy of Fashion Design.

Do you work alone or in a team?
I work alone and also in a team. I have a studio that is separate from the production room where the rest of the team works. I do all the planning and preparation in this room as it is quiet and I can focus on the task at hand. But I also work closely with the ladies in the production room in order to create garments of the highest quality.

What inspires you to design your products? Where do you obtain your inspiration?
People, their lifestyles, personalities, attitudes, body shapes and character. As well as any pretty part-vintage paraphernalia. The beauty of nature also inspires me. But the main source of my inspiration is God – he has filled me with his spirit, wisdom, understanding, knowledge, skills and artistic inspiration!

Do you have any words of wisdom for South African designers who are keen to get their work out there?
Trust in God – he opens doors and makes things work for those who love Him and for those who are called to pursue their purpose. The rest is easy...Really, if you trust in Him then you will be able to overcome any challenges you may face.