INTERVIEW with Unga Folau Tupou || Co-Founder & Creative Director of Q Style Runway

SD: Hi, Unga. For my readers who don’t know you yet, can you please introduce yourself?

Hi readers, I’m Unga, a conservative christian Tongan Aussie who grew up loving fashion fads and my mum’s wardrobe. 

SD: What was your journey to launch Q Style Runway in Brisbane?

UT: After several years working with Pacific Fashion Festival, and later supporting Ravishing Fashionistas and a number of boutique runway events for designer friends, I developed extensive experience behind the scenes of the fashion industry. While assisting at Ravishing Fashionistas, I met Kristen Ravest, who had been hosting small fashion shows on the Sunshine Coast. By chance we found ourselves on the same cruise and, during that unexpected meeting, came up with the idea to create Q Style Runway — a fresh, Queensland-based fashion showcase that combines our shared experience and vision.

SD: What is your opinion on the fashion industry today?  

UT: Much like modern art, I believe some designers have veered off course, while others are boldly adventurous with colour and form. I hold that God, the ultimate Creator, is the source of beauty and creativity. I have a deep appreciation for the classic principles once central to fashion design — garments that embody modesty, class and timeless style for women, and equally refined standards for men. Seeing these qualities brought to life on the runway continues to inspire me. 

SD: Have you always loved fashion? Can you share any memorable pieces you’ve worn and what you loved about them?  

UT: When my husband first met me at our Tongan church, he laughed that my family always looked as if we were heading to a fashion show. He wasn’t wrong — I grew up watching my mother, Lesila Malekamu, carefully dress and accessorise every outfit. My love of fashion undoubtedly comes from her. She always taught me that women should not only look beautiful, but also carry themselves with grace — and, as she would say, “always smell nice, too.”  My favourite piece of clothing I owned was made by my aunty, Litia.  I showed her a photo of Janet Jackson’s, Rhythm Nation outfit, and my aunty sewed it for me, chains and all!  One of my friends borrowed it from me and never returned it….I want my jacket back! 

SD: How did you come up with your business idea? What advice do you have for others on how to come up with great ideas?  

UT: I wanted to create a platform that delivers high-end quality while weaving in a touch of culture. Too often, the fashion industry feels gatekept — reserved for an elite circle of designers, models and guests. My vision is to uphold that same standard of excellence but make it accessible to everyday people. I believe that if you choose to do something, do it well and with intention. You won’t please everyone, and that isn’t the goal; the true responsibility is to be integral in all that you do.

SD: What is the single best piece of advice you have ever received?  

UT: Never follow your heart, it is deceptive above all else. 

SD: What would you say are the essential items every woman should have in her wardrobe?  

UT: Strapless bras! In every colour! 

Tickets are going fast. Go and buy a ticket to Unga’s Event: Q Style Runway here

Q Style Runway Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/q_style_runway/
Q Style Runway Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/QStyle-Runway-61576992351866/

Photo Credits:

First Photo: Unga and Liz Murrihy - taken by Chi Yeung
Second Photo: Lesila Malekamu (Unga’s Mum) and Unga
Third Photo: Q Style Runway Team - taken by Kiki Phoebe from AKP Photography