In Conversation With Mollika Prak, Founder & Jewlery Designer Of Monirath
Earrings by Monirath
Earrings by Monirath
Photography: Mollika Prak
Interview: Isis Nicole
On her interests growing up
When I was young, I was really artistic and loved drawing. I had this break in high school and then I revisited that creative side when I graduated. I found a spark with fashion and design and stuck to it. [Now] I make jewellery, but I specialise in earrings. I always knew that I was meant to be in the creative field. I just had trouble finding out what it was – I tested many artistic mediums but my attempts were so embarrassing so I will make sure they never see the light of day. I am very happy that I am starting to find myself.
On life in Australia
It’s good! There’s a lot of beaches and animals – but nothing that you see on the Internet is true. Like we don’t sleep with spiders and snakes and all that. I rarely see any and I have never seen a snake in my lifetime. I love the beaches though, and I love going there when I need to cleanse my mind of toxicity or if I just need some inspiration ASAP!
On defining moments to become a boss
This is actually my first job ever. I have never worked for anyone else. I just created jewellery one day because I didn’t like anything that was already being sold (and I was dirt broke), and a few people showed interest so I started a shop!
On excitement in fashion and design
Diversity! Inclusivity! I’m so excited that I’m seeing more of it in the industry. Although so far, it’s only being scratched on the surface, it’s been exciting to see it all unravel. I love what Rihanna is doing with all her business endeavours and opening doors for everyone. I really admire her.
On comfort zone
I try to do something completely different with every project I do. It may seem like a very simple answer, which it is, but it’s actually the hardest thing ever. I’m not interesting at all. But, I used to not know how to prioritise and I would be terrible with time management. Now that I have so much on my plate, I had no choice but to learn those skills. So learning all that has done so much for my mind, body and spirit.
Ring by Monirath
On writing affirmations privately or online
Online. I feel like I’m holding myself more accountable for it.
On social media
Social media is why my brand exists, why it’s still alive. The Internet is a force that has helped me for the past two years and I am grateful for the people that have supported me, who I have created relationships with, and the opportunities I have received through the Internet. I am indebted to the people on social media. They have shown me so much light and my heart swells!
On originality
I don’t believe in originality, I feel like everything has been done at least once. But, I do believe in reinvention and adding elements or altering it – if that makes sense. Not intentionally of course. I’m just trying to say that originality doesn’t exist. But in terms of habits, I do not look at other runway collections or other jewellery – ever. I feel like they mess with my way of thinking.
On motivation
Movies! I am a sucker for good cinematography. Any shot I see could inspire a whole collection. If I do, I then find myself sketching and creating for hours.
On regrets
Taking my time to start my brand. I felt like I really rushed things when I first started. I would not want to show anyone what my first collection looked like.
Earrings by Monirath
On this 2019 highlights
It’s a tie between being in my first Vogue issue and Rihanna saying that my jewellery is dope.
On feeling invincible
Every time I finish making a piece that I have sketched or imagined.
On favorite place to visit
I honestly just like staying at home. There is no place better than home. It’s serene, relaxing, safe – nothing beats it.
On favorite scent
I don’t have a favourite but I am wearing Lazy Sunday Morning by Maison Margiela right now.
On favorite podcast(s) and movie(s)
I love Omondi’s “The Cutting Room Floor” – it’s an eye-opening, informative podcast about today’s industry. Movies I love are the Marvel and John Wick franchises.
On dream collaboration
I would love to work with Fenty because I feel like our design styles are very similar and I could help elevate the brand. Also, Marvel because it’s always been a dream of mine – I would love to create some pieces to appear on the big screen.
Earrings by Monirath