Peter Morrissey an intelligent, interesting and sometimes outspoken man was our guest at lunch in Brisbane recently preparing for his appearance at the NRA Australian Fashion Design Awards Festival on the Gold Coast.

Peter will be interviewed in an informal talk session by Editor Nicole Carrington at the Designer Breakfast at the Sofitel, Gold Coast on Tuesday 5th December . From the mood of the conversation at lunch I think we are in for a few secrets and lots of fun with Peter Morrissey.

I asked a few questions that are likely to be discussed at the public appearance of Peter Morrissey when I interview him on Fashion Stage at Pacific Fair also on Tuesday 5th December at 10.30am. You are invited to be there to meet the designer.

Di ---- Peter what or whom was your biggest fashion moment?

Peter -- "Qantas, of course. Having one of the world's best airlines choose me was the best ever experience"

Di ---- As our Pacific Fair morning will focus on accessories tell us what inspires you to design those fabulous famous PM sunglasses?

Peter -- Sunglasses give attitude to your face. I don't design them to protect you from the sun - although of course they do - I design sunglasses to express your personality.

Di ---- That across the body bag is a favorite with some top celebrities. Is it called the Kiss Bag?

Peter -- Well, It's actually called the Cisco Girl bag but I call it the Kiss bag as it has KISS studded into the shoulder strap. I gave one to Elle Macpherson when she was in Sydney recently, and she loved it so much she bought six more for her friends. The styling is very relaxed, very cool. The embellished and appliquéd leather has a vintage feel, like you've owned it forever.

Di ---- Peter I have heard you say "Dress to Express" not the usual "Dress to Impress." Please explain?

Peter -- Don't waste your time dressing to impress others. Dress to express your own personality. I always say that your personality is your best accessory. If you look your best in jeans and a tee shirt, then wear that look proudly. It's all about how your clothes make you feel, not about how you look.

Di ---- Peter you have been successful but we know there have been set backs. What do you believe has been the key to your current popularity and happiness?

Peter -- I call myself a Buddhist Realist. The things that have happened to me - good and bad - have all been lessons. Criticism is sometimes just faith in your potential. I think that people respond to me as I am a very genuine man, I love the fantasy of the fashion world, but I'm firmly based in reality.

My favourite celebrity to dress is the woman who wears my dress and makes her husband fall in love with her all over again. Everyone can feel like they are on the red carpet wearing Morrissey, even if it's just my t-shirts.

I've had business setbacks and heartache, as most people have, and I think that is a bond between me and my customers, who are so loyal to me, like family.

Di ---- We know you love putting back into the industry - working with young fashion students and some recent major awards?

Peter -- I'm a very proud supporter of the Spirit Of Youth Awards, which is a great Qantas initiative. Young designers working in photography, film, fashion, industrial design, and music win substantial cash and travel prizes, and are also mentored by people in their chosen fields. For example, the guy who won in industrial design this year is being mentored by Marc Newson, and I am mentoring Ed & Bek, the fashion winners. I judge the fashion segment of the awards and the new generation of talent out there is so inspiring.

I also travel with Qantas on the Share the Spirit tour - I visit schools and colleges in remote areas and talk to students about how they can work towards their dreams. I'm from a pretty humble background, and I think it means a lot to these kids to hear that they have the chance to succeed no matter where they come from.

Di ---- Where can people buy Morrissey around Australia?

Peter -- I have stores in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and I'm also in major David Jones stores across Australia. Check www.morrissey.net.au for the closest location.

Peter Morrissey , the brand, will be shown in the Australian Designer Showcase in the opening segment of the NRA Australian Fashion Deign Awards on Channel 9 in a live national telecast, at 8.30pm on Saturday 9th December.

until next month,' wear it well'

Ciao...istylefashion with Di Cant.

Coming Up Designer Chats with Carla Zampatti, Wayne Cooper of Brave and Zimmerman