Style File is a series that looks at young New Zealand fashion designers through different phases of their careers.
Liam Bowden, the designer behind Deadly Ponies, says the label was not intended to be a proper business when he began making leather bags and accessories five years ago.
The graphic designer learnt about printing onto leather during an elective at university and then started selling goods to friends while working at boutique store, Superette. From there, the brand took off.
Staying inspired these days is not hard, says Liam. With the label running full steam ahead, the challenge for him now is to be able to shelve his ideas, then come back to them when his schedule allows it.
And what’s the key to truly establishing a brand the way Deadly Ponies has?
“We’ve always grown within our means,” says Liam.
“The main thing I think that’s helped in our success has been not trying to run before we could walk.”
