By Despina Karpathiou
Soult Australia was showcased at New York Fashion Week 2025 as part of this year’s Flying Solo independent selection and its designer, Nia, was the only young Greek Australian in the lineup.
Following the exciting news, The Greek Herald spoke to Nia about her journey bringing Soult to life.
The brand focuses on ethically handmade pieces that celebrate Mediterranean summers and artisanal craftsmanship. Soult’s latest collection caught international attention, and they were recently recognised by Elle Slovenia following their runway debut.
“Growing up, I was incredibly fortunate to have two creative and deeply supportive parents. I believe this stems from our Greek heritage – a culture built on cherishing one another, uplifting our community, and passing down traditions with love,” Nia explains.
Creativity was always encouraged in Nia’s home and from a young age she was drawn to expressing herself through fashion.
“I’ve always loved dressing up, not just for myself but for everyone around me. As a child, I would style my Barbies, piece together outfits for friends, and experiment with different textures and silhouettes, constantly playing with fashion as a form of storytelling,” she says.
Nia wasn’t afraid to stand out, to wear something bold, or to mix things in an unexpected way. For her, fashion has never been about blending in – it’s always been about creating, about making something feel new and personal. That passion never faded; if anything, it only grew stronger as Nia got older.
“Being Greek is a huge part of who I am, and my yiayiathes and mum have always been my greatest inspiration. They are strong, resilient women who taught me to cherish our culture, our traditions, and the beauty in handmade craftsmanship,” Nia says proudly.
From the intricate detailing of Ancient Greek attire to the elegance of traditional costumes, there is such a rich history in the way Greeks dress and that sense of artistry has always stayed with Nia. This influence is especially present in the crocheting of her designs.
“My yiayiathes would spend hours crocheting, creating pieces with such patience and love. But it was never just about the final product – it was about the process. Crocheting was always accompanied by storytelling, by laughter, by moments of connection. Every stitch carried history; every piece held a part of them. That’s what makes handmade fashion so special – it’s more than just clothing; it’s a piece of someone’s creativity, their life, their legacy!” Nia says.
She explains that Soult is her 5-to-9, not her 9-to-5. To her, Soult is more than just a brand; it’s a way of sharing her story and passion with the world.
“Fashion, to me, has never been about following trends – it’s about self-expression, about making something unique, something that feels like me,” she says.
Nia’s mother is a painter and that artistic energy has always surrounded her. This influence, combined with her own boldness, has shaped the way she designs.
“I don’t create with the idea of fitting in; I create to bring something new to life, to tell a story through fabric, form, and feeling. For me, fashion isn’t just about what you wear – it’s about how it makes you feel, the confidence it gives you, and the way it allows you to own your individuality,” Nia says.
She finds inspiration everywhere – from the effortless elegance of Chloé to the bold creativity of Mary Katrantzou and the timeless allure of Jean Paul Gaultier’s vintage couture. Texture, simplicity, and layering are at the heart of her designs, creating pieces that feel both effortless and considered.
Soult is built on love, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to summers in Greece. It’s more than just clothing – it’s a feeling, a nostalgia for sun-drenched days and balmy evenings by the sea.
“My greatest inspiration has always been the women of Greece, effortlessly stylish as they head to their local beaches – one throw-over dress, a bag, a towel, and sun-kissed skin. Their understated elegance, confidence, and natural beauty have always stood out to me as the epitome of classic style,” Nia reflects.
Each piece is designed to be worn with ease, layered or alone, carrying the essence of sunlit escapes and timeless femininity.
“It’s about feeling free, confident, and connected – to yourself, to the moment, and to the beauty around you!” Nia concludes.
