Onehunga designer reps at New York Fashion Week2 min read
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Onehunga artisan Emily Mahy took her label, MAHY, to New York Fashion Week last month, showcasing her handmade leather bags and accessories as part of the Flying Solo runway show, Ones to Watch.
Flying Solo represents independent designers worldwide, and MAHY was one of only 20 labels to appear at New York Fashion Week. Emily presented eight bags, six bag charms and six rouched bag straps, styled across eight looks alongside other independent designers.
“For the eight looks, we collaborated with London-based clothing brand Add An Apron, shoe designers NS Nicole Salzar from Buenos Aires, American-based designer Rich and Rich Home Opportunities L.L.C and accessories designer Manika Jewellery,” says Emily.
Seeing her work on the runway was, “Incredible! Amazing! Emotional! Overall the best experience I have ever had for my brand,” says Emily.
All the bags come from her Eye See You collection, launched in 2024, and inspired by ancient Egyptian art, and the Eye of Horus.
“Drawing inspiration from the Eye of Horus to communicate visibility, protection, and individuality is a powerful message in today’s world, emphasizing that everyone, regardless of age, gender, body shape, or ethnicity, deserves to be seen.”
A successful PledgeMe campaign helped Emily cover her participation fee, flights, accommodation and travel insurance. “This was truly amazing and I really couldn’t have done it without the support of my community generously giving to my campaign.”
Emily was joined by photographer Kim May, who documented all the behind-the-scenes moments, and stylist Carly Spooner was Emily’s assistant.
“They were both incredibly supportive and I couldn’t have done it without them,” says Emily.
Emily’s collection from the show is now stocked in the Flying Solo store in SoHo, New York and their PR showroom, where stylists can use the collection for editorial shoots. It’s also available locally from her website, mahy.co.nz and by appointment at the showroom at 278 Onehunga Mall, which she shares with local clothing designer, JOJO ROSS.
