Putting the ‘Goggly Eye’ on Perpetually Five

Posted on 9 January, 2015

Perpetually Five

Canberra based fashion label Perpetually Five has garnered a reputation for being fun, adventurous, and childlike yet sophisticated. Mitch Thompson’s designs have become a favourite sight on the runway of Fashfest – bold colours, eye-catching repeat patterns, and playful tailoring. Juliette Dudley had a chat with Mitch, to find out where it all began and what’s in store for 2015.

How did you become interested in fashion design?

I found myself in a position where I was no longer happy with my job and wanted to pursue fashion, as it was always something I’d had an interest in.

What was your experience of studying fashion at Canberra Institute of Technology?

I began at CIT not knowing anything about fashion. The degree was really intense, there were many sleepless nights but it was all worth it; they teach you everything and it really prepares you for the fashion industry. I was lucky as I was able to find a work life balance – I could work hard during the week and party on the weekends. I think that was the most important thing, as you could step away from your work and come back the next week with a fresh mind. Although it was hard at the time, it was also so much fun and I don’t think I would be where I am today if I didn’t study there.

Where did the concept behind Perpetually Five come from?

I like to have fun with fashion and play on the seriousness of the industry. I have a childish attitude when it comes to design and one day my teacher, Steve Wright called me ‘Perpetually Five’ and from thereon it just stuck.

How has the label developed since your first collection?

Perpetually Five is about having fun with fashion and each collection I try to push my label in a different direction whilst staying true to my design aesthetic. Over the past few years I have developed as a designer and my designs have become more mature and refined. I now have a more in depth understanding of design and I am able to work more effectively and efficiently.

Do you work as a fashion designer full-time, or do you have a “day job” as well? If so, how do you manage the two?

I have tried to work as a full time designer in Canberra but in my opinion I don’t think it’s possible to do so at this time. So I am a public servant by day and fashion designer by night. I haven’t had to manage the two just yet so we will see how I go at the beginning of the 2015. Fashion is very time consuming so I probably won’t be getting much sleep, but that’s day guy’s problem.

Your ‘Googly Eye’ collection reminds us a bit of the work of artist Yayoi Kusama. Who are some of your favourite designers, and where do you find inspiration?

I have always been excited by designers Agi and Sam and Jean-Charles de Castelbajac. Both designers have a unique way of bringing fun and colour to the fashion industry and yet they still maintain a sophisticated style.

My childlike attitude is what inspires me – I like to play on the seriousness of the fashion industry. I usually start off with a childlike idea and gather information and inspiration from all angles, from music to art and movies.

Tell us about your workspace?

I have a little room in my apartment. It has a few sewing machines, desk, clothing rack, iron and a ton of fabric.

What’s a typical day for you?

To be honest I live a pretty normal life. I have a full time job but it’s always good to step away from that and head into the studio either at night or on the weekends when inspiration strikes me.

Canberra has a reputation for being conservative, but do you think that attitudes to the local design industry here are changing? How has your label been received by Canberrans?

Ha Canberra is always stereotyped!

I think it is so much fun – it’s kind of like [the tv show] Cheers, Canberra is somewhere you wanna go, where everybody knows your name and they’re always glad you came.

But yeah… It’s definitely growing. I don’t think it is quite ready for my label but Canberra is like one giant creative hub and it’s only getting bigger and bigger. Everyone pretty much knows everyone in the industry and it’s great to have such a supportive community.

Have you any plans to collaborate with other designers in Canberra?

I will be creating a collection with Clare Read of Reading Clare for Fashfest 2015. We studied together and thought it would be fun to collaborate with our different styles and aesthetics to create something weird.

What can we expect from Perpetually Five in 2015?

It’s a secret but as usual it will be something different from my previous collections – so keep your eyes peeled!

To see more of Mitch’s work, check out the Perpetually Five website.

First published on Good Design Club on 27 November 2014.