Manifesto

Jakob Carter is a local designer and a true ray of light. His fashion and fragrance is causing a stir both here and abroad. We sat down with Jakob to chat about his journey. 

In a world with infinite career paths available, you followed your heart. Would you call this intuition or bravery?  

It’s safe to say it was a bit of both. The world can seem like a big scary place but you just have to make it happen. I’ve learned the only thing stopping you from reaching your dreams is yourself. Once you start loving yourself and believing in yourself, obstacles start to fall away. You learn, grow and make mistakes along the way and it becomes part of not just your business journey, but also your personal journey. You just have to work hard and push yourself out of your comfort zone. Once you learn this, the sky's the limit.

Even amidst a pandemic, your designs have caught international attention, your growth has skyrocketed, you've just collaborated with Stan Walker - the future looks bright! What's the key to your success?

I think it’s just that I never gave up. There were many times I was a bit lost, unsure of what direction to take, but I kept going, pushing, talking to friends and asking for advice. Eventually I found my way. I think the biggest part of creating a successful business is respecting everyone around you, being yourself, working hard and helping others around you to succeed also.

How would you describe your design aesthetic? 

A bit over-the-top. I try to find crazy fabrics that aren’t similar to anything I’ve seen before. Something special and bold that can create a unique piece. I also mix in darker tones from time to time so it’s a good mixture of everything. I try not to stick to one theme. I’m sure my aesthetic will change and evolve as time goes on. It’s all part of growing.

“The world is so serious and it really doesn’t have to be. I totally believe you can work hard and have fun at the same time”

What's one piece of advice you’ve always held on to? And one you could do without?

In the early stages of business, one of the most important things someone said to me was only invest money into something that would make you money back. I think many businesses fail because they try to go too big too quick with fancy packaging, an over-the-top office or store and many other things, but none of that is important if you’re not making any money. Always start small and grow slowly. When I was studying, one of my tutors told me; “You will never make it as a fashion designer. Try something else.” Looking back, I realise she just didn’t know or understand me. The lesson I learned from this is to believe in myself. Only you know what you’re capable of and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

What's your most nostalgic scent memory?

Caribbean Dream, which I designed with Erin Simpson. It reminds me of overseas adventures on a tropical island. Nothing beats the experience of travelling. It completely changes the way you see the world.

One item every winter wardrobe needs is? 

A coat! You can pair a good coat with many different looks and styles and it's perfect for those winter events.

What does it mean to you to run your brand from your local town, Ōpōtiki? 

It’s so important to me to have and run our brand here in ÕpÕtiki. It’s my hometown, where it all started, and I’m just so thankful for all the love and support from our local community who have helped us get here. We live in such a beautiful and creative town. I hope that by staying here, we can help inspire other creatives to follow their dreams and work hard to make it happen. You can achieve whatever you want in life; you just have to be prepared to work hard enough to get there.

You emit such radiant optimism and positivity! What lights you up? 

Thank you! Life is short so I remember to always have fun and spread positivity where I can. The world is so serious and it doesn’t have to be. I totally believe you can work hard and have fun at the same time. It makes a stronger team and helps keep positive energy in the office and warehouse. 

@jakobcarter | jakobcarter.co.nz

Interview by Brooke Duder