"And it was a first for me – winning an award," Demirsoy said.
"I was so happy I couldn't sleep until 2.30am. It is a good feeling. It inspires me and my upcoming collection as well."
The Maungatapu-based student has gone through her own plus-size journey after a surgery reduced the amount of exercise she was doing.
She said she does not care what people think about the clothes she wears and she wants to inspire others to think the same.
Demirsoy, who was born in Turkey and moved to New Zealand when she was 12, said her ultimate goal is to be a well-known designer.
She dreams of one day showcasing a plus-size collection at London Fashion Week.
Her Hokonui Fashion Design Award-winning collection took a lot of time and broken needles, but has generated plenty of interest.
Demirsoy said she has received great feedback and a lot of messages from people wanting to buy the clothes, asking if there was more and what was coming next.
Her family is proud, she said.
"And my mum's like posting everywhere on Facebook."
Her plus-size collection will be on the runway at the Art for Kids fundraiser on September 8 at the Tauranga Art Gallery.
And what's next for Demirsoy? A five-piece summer collection – also plus-size – featuring digital print cultural motifs.
It will be her final collection of the year, will be a combination of luxury high-end fashion and lifestyle sports apparel, and will reflect who she is and where she comes from.
"The aim is for the women to embrace their body shape, be confident and to inspire others."
