Why Is There a Fashion Magazine for Liverpool?
- Destined Magazine
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Aleisha Petafi is the founder, editor, and creative director of Liverpool's number 1 independent print.
Running for over three years, the Liverpool based publication is largely a one-woman operation with Aleisha collaborating with creatives and offering opportunities to those seeking experience in fashion media while building a supportive platform for unrepresented talent in the North.
Aleisha's journey into fashion publishing was shaped by her time in London where she felt a lack of community and imposter syndrome, this experience pushed her to rethink both how, and where she creates.
"I moved to London, and felt a real lack of community. I struggled with imposter syndrome, and felt pushed out. It got to the point of wondering why I was even down there. I realised that I didn't need to be there to pursue fashion. Liverpool has so much talent that just isn't showcased and I wanted to create that space."
Now she's channeling that vision into new creative milestones, making a significant step forward for Destined, both as a publication and a platform.
"Issue 2 coming out, this week., alongside our first event. It's been a long time coming, but we're finally doing a large scale event in the Baltic with loads of fashion creatives, we're going to invite local papers, and magazines, all local really."
Collaboration is at the heart of Destined Magazine, with Aleisha building connections through her outreach and a community of creatives drawn to the platform.
"It's very 50/50, a lot of people reached out to me, but I also do a lot of reaching out. For example, I asked MariMari to be the face of the very first issue. I will always try to make space for people, I never really say no to showcasing someone's work."
What began as something informal, and digital has since evolved into a tangible, lasting format that reflects Aleisha's intention to create something meaningful and collective.
"It actually started as an Instagram page, I'd message people like stylists, designers, and shops asking if I could feature them, then I wanted to create physical that people could keep and cherish, it naturally grew into a magazine."
Photo by @driffysphotos
What influences you?
"I love the Beatles, their story coming from Liverpool and becoming global is amazing to me. I'm also really inspired by independent print magazines which showcase working-class artists and stories like Bricks"
What are you building towards?
"I definitely want to take it beyond print, and do more events and start mentoring young creatives in Liverpool. Whether they've graduated or are still figuring things out, I want to help them build connections, and develop their own brands too."
Grab an issue of Destined Magazine and support the independent print now!
Interview and photography by Anjola Idowu
For Gone Norf Magazine
For press enquiries, please contact Destined Magazine using our contact form
