Andreas Melbostad – Diesel Black Gold’s newly appointed creative director, showcased his debut womenswear line for a/w13 at New York’s Pier 57 complex on Tuesday. We sat down with the Norweigian-born designer – who replaced Sophia Kokosalaki in August – to talk through his fantastical, reference-driven collection.

What are your key inspirations for the a/w13 Diesel Black Gold collection?

Velocity is a key topic a collection designed around the inspiration of a Gas Station. Iconic motorbike style, denim and tailored garments has informed new hybrid garments fusing different iconic references together.

As the new creative director of DBG, are you looking to put a new stamp on the collection – if so, how would you describe it?

I like the irreverent attitude of the brand and I am inspired by its brave and bold approach. I’ll keep on addressing our women with a strong sense of self-consciousness, adding a particular focus on cut, fit, construction and structure of my designs. I like well tailored pieces and I like recognizable references.

What strong message do you want journalists and buyers to take away after they’ve read the release?

I hope they will notice the dynamic and irreverent mood of the collection. I focused on structure and engineering or the pieces; the variety of materials and designs within one singular look I think is another important element. Most importantly I want to communicate a strong, confident and sexy new Diesel Black Gold girl.