GEORGE GROSS & HARRY WATT (designer for HARRY WHO)

Question: What was the most notable moment in your design career?

Answer: George Gross – It was wonderful to be in the presence of Charles and Diana, 1988 at the Opera House – one of nine international designers and six Australian designers to show during the world telecast (bicentennial). Montana, Sonia Rykiel, Versace and DKNY were there. We partied later with Donna Karan and her husband – great party!

Question: To Harry Watt (label Harry Who). Your interest and involvement in fashion, where did it begin?

Answer: For as long as I can remember it was to "own my own menswear store". I did design menswear for four years – took out the top awards, a real hit, a little bit Miami Vice – worked well in the 1980s. Then I specialised in women’s wear – loved the 80s.

Question: To George Gross. What year did you start designing female fashion?

Answer: 1973. By 1976 we were more established and grew much bigger. By the 80s, very popular with fashionable women all over the country. The 80s for us was stunning – slim evening gowns, shoulder pads that really whittled in the ladies’ waistlines. We were doing thirteen collections and at the same time had the overseas market for women’s wear – so something had to go.

Question: To Harry and George. What were the influences that inspired your current winter collection?

Answer: (Harry) It’s all about the fabrics – velvets, wools and laces. And the shapes – yes women love us to work with shape… also colours, muted neutrals (love toast and wineberry,) some brights, lots of black.

(George) It’s all about glamour – beautiful sensual fabrics and soft subtle tones and discreet beading colours of champagne, jewels and black and white.

Question: How important are accessories to your clothes?

Answer: (George) Good accessories are essential to all clothes – bad accessories make anything ordinary. Good shoes are so important – they make clothes special… Personality of the wearer is what gives an outfit that personal style.

Question: For you to wear personally, what is your look?

Answer: (Harry) For me it’s black jeans and black jacket for any formal occasion, otherwise it’s dark jeans with tee shirts or knitwear.

Question: Travel obviously plays a bit part in your business and in your lifestyle; do you have any travel tips for men and women?

Answer: (George) Personally I travel only with clothes and accessories in grey, black and white, one of everything and I then leave room for shopping.

Question: Harry, how important is travel to you?

Answer: We are all time-poor – never have a lot of time – but it is inspiring and just a wonderful experience to travel. It’s about music, the food, the culture, the people – oh yes it is fantastic to travel when we can.

This interview was conducted over dinner with two of Australia’s best fashion icons and successful business men. I personally wear their labels and, having worked with both of them on parades over many years, have absolute respect for their talent and adore them as industry friends.

George Gross and Harry Who available at their own name boutiques at Emporium, Brisbane and Marina Mirage, Gold Coast, and at David Jones throughout Australia.

George Gross, Harry Who and G2 website... www.buca@gghw.com.au