Fashion Rebel presents an exclusive 3-part feature this month.

Introducing your RMIT Bachelor of Design (Fashion) Students…

…would you please welcome Eutichia Drakopoulos

Drawing inspiration from aesthetics, culture and textiles, Eutichia Drakopoulos delivers a demure collection of high quality, tailored garments this season. Using a combination of luxurious fabrics, knitting techniques and intricate embroideries, Eutichia’s non-discriminative approach to design has captured the attention of her peers and professionals. A collection suitable for women of all ages, Eutichia displays a true understanding of ladies fashion, encompassing timeless, practical and edgy pieces with a feminine charm.

Faced with the confronting nature of the industry, the pressures of the past four years have tested the commitment of this young designer. A product of generation Y, Eutichia is first to admit that disposable and trend shopping plague both her wardrobe and ambition. How do we counteract the popularity of fast fashion, while supporting local manufacturing in a consumerist culture? The importance of educating buyers about quality, environmental sustainability and local trade remain paramount in the mind of Eutichia, who believes ‘Investment Shopping’ could restore order to the current fashion retail market

Whether you’re purchasing vintage, designer or trend garments, Eutichia insists we start asking all the right questions.  Deciphering between the quality and value of an item is essential.  Falling victim to cheap and disposable fixes is only natural in a culture that encourages constant buying behaviours. The question remains, how do we combat excessive spending, unnecessary purchases and ignoring local manufacturers?  The solution is in the wise words and elegant designs of Eutichia Drakopoulos. 

The initial excitement may have worn off for Eutichia Drakopoulos, though her dedication to design and creativity have, and will continue to be advantageous.

Follow Eutichia’s Blog!

Email: eutichia.d@gmail.com

Photography by: Viktor Nilsson

Model: Melody Le of Chadwick Models

What are your main sources of inspiration?

I always find myself coming back to travel and global cultures. There’s something so rich about the traditions, aesthetics and the spirit of other cultures. Another strong source of inspiration for me is the fabric that I’m using. Although it sounds quite rudimentary, you can’t design without your fabric firmly in mind. The way a textile behaves strongly dictates the form of a garment.

How would you describe your own personal style? Is that reflected in your designs?

Firstly I think it’s really expressed in my graduate collection, which used a combination of draped knits and tailoring. Personally, I love mixing prints, simple shapes, knitwear and waisted skirts. I’m a sucker for great natural fibers and beautiful fabrication. Give me wool and I’m a happy lady. I guess you could say I have a quite classic style with a 50’s vibe.

How important is it to support local trade in your opinion?

So important! Australia is full of talented designers and skilled trades people who are being replaced with cheaper overseas labour. It’s easier said than done, because, for example, as a young designer starting a business, the bottom line changes dramatically when moving production overseas. It needs to be more than this though, and I think consumers are starting to really seek out Australian made and owned products. Again, it’s about education. As consumers become more interested in the origins of the product they’re investing in, the support for Australian made grows, which in turn helps designers who are trying to do their bit.

***What are your thoughts on mass-produced clothing? How do you think Australian designers can counteract this? ***

This is probably the most important issue facing our fashion marketplace, and is one I feel very strongly about. Mass production has a huge spot in the market currently, and I think in some instances it is warranted. The problem is that we (in particular gen y), myself inclusive, have been brought up to consume. The mentality is so engrained in us that any other idea seems ridiculous. A culture of buying something new for each weekend seems so scary, and even scarier is the fact that I used to do it! Clothing is so accessible and disposable. I think education is so important, and I feel this is happening slowly with the whole green movement, but not enough is being done about fashion retail. Chain stores coupled with fast fashion trends and people who want to look new and current constantly is a recipe for disaster.

Which Australian designers do you aspire to?  

I think Melbourne label Obus is doing a brilliant job supporting local trade, and have created a brand which is so consistent in vision and aesthetic.

Where do you see yourself after graduation?

I see myself in lots of places! Travelling is first on my list. Hopefully I’ll be teaching English in Japan next year, and doing fun things. I still have heaps of learning to do, so interning is also a priority, maybe here or maybe overseas! I’m feeling content letting the wind take me somewhere next year, and then I’ll start doing things that are a bit more solid!