1. When/why was Y&T founded?

Y&T started with the intention of raising funds for the tragic earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Fashion is what I love and know – so naturally this is what I could contribute to make this happen. My husband Tristan and I worked on our first range with all the proceeds going to aid. Yuka&Tristan was founded in 2011, April.

2. Where do you get your inspiration?

Anything that gets me interested at any given time, which then becomes my inspiration/concept to develop the range – architecture, paint, books, design, music etc. Also, I deal with very beautiful fabric – I often get inspired by that too.

3. Have you always loved fashion?

Yes. Always. x

4. What is your go to magazine?

I love Japanese fashion Magazines: Ginza, Fudge Internatinal – The Gentle Woman, Numero, Vogue NZ – Home

5. Have you had any Y&T collections in ‘NZ Fashion Week’ or offshore catwalk? Future plans?

I haven’t thought about doing catwalk into NZ fashion week yet – however I’d definitely love to experience this, if the opportunity arose. I have some exciting news to be revealed soon… (but can’t tell yet) so please stay tuned ! via /yukaandtristan – facebook / @Yuka&Tristan – twitter / #yooksasyuka – instagram

6. Who would you (really) like to wear your brand?

Tilda Swinton

7. Any influences?

Yoji Yamamoto, Kenzo

8. Are you living your ‘dream-job’?

Yes, Although It’s a really tough business – I feel super lucky to do what I love. Big thanks to my husband.

9. When it comes to chocolate -Cadbury or Whittakers?

Whittakers – I choose by label 🙂

10. What makes you smile?

My young children who try to tell me stories about their (daily) adventures, mostly about their school endeavours – those cute explanations are the most gorgeous of things.