Fashion Plate: Glen Prentice

Glen Prentice. Photo / Babiche Martens

This talented young designer is one to watch in the fashion world.

He may still be a fashion student at Auckland's AUT, but Glen Prentice's work has already appeared on TV and in various local magazines. His one-off macrame and leather accessories have been a favourite of stylists. The unisex pieces take more than six hours of hand work, originally designed as part of an assignment. Although jewellery isn't necessarily the direction he wants to head in post-graduation. "I really love an approach to design that pushes traditional boundaries. In fashion particularly, design that doesn't denote to gender or season. I like this kind of universal approach; to me it feels appropriate, contemporarily," he explains. Prentice also works part-time at Children of Vision, a boutique perfectly fitted to his aesthetic, which could be described simply as "black".

How would you describe your style?

There is a certain element of grunge in a lot of what I wear, consisting mostly of black, something that has stuck with me since a brief period of teenage angst. I find a monochromatic wardrobe easier to wear, mix and add more to.

Who are your favourite menswear designers?

Designers who have their individual directions and aesthetics - Rick Owens, Raf Simons, Damir Doma, Kris Van Assche and Riccardo Tisci.

What's the best thing in your wardrobe; the piece that gets the most wear?

A grey knit long-sleeve by Zambesi.

What was the last item of clothing you bought?

A pair of boots from the collaboration between Rad by Rad Hourani and Aldo. They have a Cuban heel just short of 3in.

What do you want to buy next?

I really wanted a Givenchy rottweiler cap - until I saw the price tag.

Who does the best shoes?

I love a good pair of Vans. They are so comfortable. I think Ann Demeulemeester's are beautiful. I have a pair of sandals that didn't leave my feet all summer.

Your favourite shop?

I can't go past Zambesi and Children of Vision, which has such amazing variety.

Best fashion advice you ever had?

My mum tried teaching me about appropriateness in high school, I remember being told "it's only school, not a fashion show" daily.

Favourite fashion film, or fashion "moment" in film?

I love film within fashion. The holographic Kate Moss in McQueen by Baillie Walsh is one of my favourite moments in fashion. Nick Knight changed the industry overseas with the live coverage of fashion shows, even if his first [McQueen's Plato's Atlantis] was a failure - he'll go down in history.

Most overrated item in fashion?

Jeans - not to say I don't appreciate a good pair. I think it's important to remember that there are trousers made of fabric other than denim too.

Most underrated item in fashion?

A good, oversized scarf. Mine gets used as anything from an umbrella to a blanket.

Who is your ultimate fashion plate?

Probably Rick Owens' wife, Michele Lamy. She has a real air of that lost bohemian glamour.

Who is the best-dressed man in New Zealand?

Mikaara Kirkwood. I've noticed him around town; each time has been like looking at a Lindauer or Goldie painting.

When it comes to style, what do New Zealand men get right?

They tend not to venture outside their comfort zone - ultimately why they can be so confident.

And what do they get wrong?

There are some shocking, ill-fitting suits around town.