Spot on: Séf Farruġia

A couple of months back, I had the pleasure of meeting one of my most favourite local designers, Séf Farruġia.  To be quite honest, I was actually star struck.  I have been coveting her designs for the past couple of years and I couldn't let the year end without catching up with her ... and actually getting myself one of her pieces.

Séf is a 25 year old designer / illustrator from the old and beautiful Maltese town of Ħaż-Żebbuġ. Having studied Arts, Design and Fashion, both in Malta and in London she has also worked in various luxury designer studios in London. Séf moved back to Malta around 2 years ago, where she has also launched her brand and is currently, also lecturing textiles at MCAST Arts & Design. 

I asked Séf a few questions.  I wanted to find out more about this talented girl whose aesthetic I admire so much.  

How did your love for fashion start? 

I have always followed the Art & Design path and so even though Fashion wasn’t necessarily what I would have been working in … it was a big possibility. I have always showed great interest in anything picturesque and the infinite artistic disciplines. Fashion was always there and present and even though at first I was going into Illustration, I ended up choosing Fashion, still incorporating my illustrations in every possible way.

Frida pocket square artwork

Guillermo pocket square artwork

When I see your designs, I notice that Maltese tiles seem to be a source of inspiration in your patterns.  What else inspires you? 

Actually, I must confess, as much as I love the Maltese tiles, they weren’t a primary source of inspiration. Everyone mistakes my prints for the tiles, however, those prints were inspired by north African interiors/ tiles exported by the English Victorian / Edwardian, and that particular era. I guess, subconsciously, various aspects of my Maltese background reflect in what I do…Even if I tried to avoid it. Anything inspires me, really. I find inspiration in the most curious places. It could be music, poetry, literature, people, cultures and civilizations, contrasting personalities… anything!

Cecilia scarf (photo credit: Henri)

Delores scarf (photo credit: Henri)

We’ve seen your collections on both Maltese and foreign runways – what’s next for Séf Farruġia? 

I am always looking out for new opportunities and so I don’t close any doors, which may lead me to something worthy. I am hoping to launch a new ready-to wear collection, soft furnishings and who knows what else comes to my mind!

Azure tie & pocket square  (photo credit: Henri)

at the 2013 Malta Fashion Week & Fashion Awards (photo credit: Dennis Calleja)

Clothes, scarves, bow ties, home accessories … is there something that Séf Farruġia cannot do? 

I think in life you have got to explore all the prospects that come by and also seek knowledge, because that’s the greatest richness you could ever have. And so I look out to always learn and try out various products, techniques etc… What I am trying to say is, there are many things that I would love to do. Eventually. For now I am mostly focusing on silk accessories.

Lavander eye-mask

If you're still looking for that last minute Christmas gift, or just want to treat yourself to a little luxury, selected Séf Farruġia products are found at Henri Luxury Gift Boutique at Mdina, (next to Palazzo Falson) or you can purchase them online via Facebook or via email seffarrugia@gmail.com.

And as I make my way to the airport, proudly wearing my Delores scarf, ready to be paraded around the Polish streets, positive that I'll be told just how bardzo piękny  and świetny it is, I encourage you to keep an eye on Séf Farruġia's work - I promise you, she'll be the next big name.