Fashion Field Magazine- Issue FOUR (FINAL YES) (1)

Vol 4, Spring ‘25

21 MARCH ‘26

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Editor’s No

Welcome to the latest issue of The Fashion Field Magazine!

Welcome to the latest issue of The Fashion Field Magazine!

Spring has arrived in Toowoomba, bringing with it a renewed sense of energy and creativity. This edition celebrates the designers and innovators shaping regional Australian fashion, with stories that capture the passion and artistry behind their work

Inside, you'll find features that showcase the diverse talent thriving across our regions – from emerging designers pushing creative boundaries to established voices sharing their industry insights. Each story reflects the dedication and vision that make regional fashion so compelling, and I'm excited for you to discover the depth of creativity on display.

We've since expanded our support to Revel Runway in Canberra, and we're looking forward to partnering with Yarragon Fashion Festival in early 2026 These partnerships mean we can actively support the events that bring our fashion community together and create platforms for regional talent to shine

We're also excited to be part of the 2026 Sapphire Soirée, working alongside Ryley Jewellery Creations to support Hope Horizons – raising vital funds for local cancer wellness services It's a beautiful reminder that fashion can be a force for good

Thank you for being part of this journey. Your continued support allows us to champion regional fashion and the incredible people behind it

18 First Steps Forward Mum of two reclaims identity through powerful editorial feature | Arianne Endrezzi

Woven in

WALKING TALL

By Adhieu Thon (Dabora Akoc)

Before I ever stepped onto a runway, I was performing in front of my community in South Sudan, dancing at ceremonies and celebrations, surrounded by culture, rhythm, and pride I didn’t grow up with fashion magazines or television, but I always had a strong sense that I wanted to represent my people in a big way I dreamed of standing tall, being seen, and showing the world who I am That dream stayed with me, even as life took me far from home

I was known in my village as one of its best dancers, and people often said I had a special kind of beauty. At the time, I didn’t even know what “modelling” was I just knew I wanted to shine brightly and honour where I came from

In 2012, I migrated to Australia as an 18-year-old new bride with a one-year-old baby. I didn’t speak English and struggled to navigate the long, complicated journey from Kenya to Australia Everything felt unfamiliar The culture, the language, the weather I was alone in a new world, but I kept going

Over the next decade, I worked hard to build a life. I learned English, completed a Certificate III in Disability Support, and began working as a support worker with two amazing agencies I raised four beautiful children, all while adjusting to life in a country far from my family and everything I had ever known.

For years, I told myself it was impossible. I was too busy, too old, too far behind But in 2023, something changed Because someone believed in me

My dear friend, Jessika Miller, gave me the courage to finally take the first step. I had spoken to her many times about my dream, and instead of brushing it off, she encouraged me to chase it She didn’t just cheer from the sidelines She helped me every step of the way S

he came to events with me, called and emailed collaborators on my behalf, and helped me build connections when I didn’t know where to start Without her support, I truly don’t think I could have begun this journey

That same year, I started reaching out to photographers and designers through TFP collaborations. I attended networking events like Brisbane Fashion Week and shared my story with anyone who would listen Jessika was often right there beside me

In late 2023, Bulley Bulley Designs and Landon Smith

Photography gave me my first professional shoot Their belief in me gave me confidence and opened doors I never imagined In February 2024, I attended my first casting call for the Queensland Art and Fashion Festival and was honoured to be selected for my debut runway show

That show changed everything Since then, I’ve walked in the Cairns Fashion Festival, Toowoomba Fashion Festival and participated in multiple fashion shows and creative campaigns. My portfolio has grown, and for the first time, I’ve started to receive paid modelling work, something that once felt like a distant dream

It hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced language barriers, cultural expectations, marriage separation, and the demands of raising four children as a single mother But I’ve also discovered a strength I didn’t know I had

I’m still a proud support worker, but now I can also proudly say I’m a professional model

I’m so grateful to everyone who has supported me, especially Jessika, whose kindness, belief and practical help gave me the confidence to start To Bulley Bulley, Landon Smith, and all the creatives who took a chance on me thank you You’ve helped me see that I belong in this space

To every young woman, especially those who have come from far away, who feel out of place, or who think their dreams are too late, I want you to know: your dream matters Your story matters It’s never too late to begin I thought the door had closed on my dream, but it turns out it was just waiting for the right time, and the right people, to open.

If a village girl from South Sudan can one day walk the runways of Australia, then so can you My journey is just beginning, and I’m so excited for what’s next

THE ART OF REWORKING BOUJEE

By Petria Cumner

boujee, luxury, formal, gala, white tie, black tie whatever you call those jaw-droppingly expensive outfits we rush to browse the moment a special event invite lands I used to be that person: spending a small fortune on gowns I’d wear once, back in my corporate, marketing, and real estate days. (Yes, I’ve dabbled in a few industries!)

The unspoken rule was clear never be seen in the same outfit twice For a twenty-something determined to climb the corporate ladder, repeating a look felt like social status suicide

Fast forward a smidgen over a decade, and thank goodness the times have changed The mindset around luxury and occasion wear is shifting People are embracing creativity, mixing and matching, hiring, thrifting, and reworking pieces to craft something truly personal.

Even brides are rethinking tradition rather than spending a small fortune on a one-wear gown, they’re curating beloved designer pieces that can be reimagined for other events or even everyday wear

At a recent gala, I was delighted to see this new approach in action So many women told me they’d hired, thrifted, or reworked their outfits and I had done the same I paired a tufted vintage black skirt with an off-the-shoulder white blouse with billowy sleeves, then added a dramatic black bow and flowing tails I’d sewn from leftover fabric. To finish, I pinned on a striking white kangaroo-leather bow by (shameless namedrop!) Stirling & Truffles a piece I’d previously worn on my shoulder to another gala earlier in the year

Whether driven by cost of living, prioritising travel or mortgages, or simply a desire for sustainability, this creative shift is nothing short of inspiring The best part? Everyone looks absolutely incredible doing it

WOVEN IN PRIDE

Written by Dr Sarah Jane Springer, founder of Glamour and the Dust

Edited by Melanie Canosa

Featuring Dr Sarah Jane Springer and Jude Kingston

T

ashion is far more than fabric stitched into garments It is culture It is belonging It is a mirror where people should see their stories, their identities, and their hopes reflected back at them. Yet for too long, the fashion world told only one story one body type, one age, one aesthetic ideal Those left outside that frame often carried silent impacts: lowered confidence, disconnection, and invisibility.

From a social and emotional wellbeing perspective, disconnection from one’s identity, culture, and sense of belonging has profound impacts on overall health affecting not only individuals, but their families and communities. Representation is not about appearances; it is about fostering resilience, pride, and healing.

That’s why events like the Toowoomba Fashion Festival (TFF) 2025 are more than runways they are living, breathing platforms for change They create spaces where diversity isn’t tolerated it is celebrated Where cultural stories are worn with pride. Where individuals feel seen, heard, and honoured.

My Moment of Pride

Walking onto the runway at TFF 2025 wearing a First Nations design from Fairholme College was a moment I will always carry with deep pride and connection. I wasn’t just modelling a beautiful outfit I was representing generations of resilience, culture, and identity As I stood waiting to walk, I quietly asked my ancestors to guide my feet, to steady my heart, and to let me tread carefully but purposefully down that runway to honour the story stitched into every thread

When I stepped out, I wasn’t nervous. Not even a little bit. All I felt was pride an overwhelming, almost electric sense of pride radiating through me The garment itself was breathtaking: layers of ruffles adorned with intricate, earthy motifs like ripples on water, telling the story of Country, of life, of strength The design felt alive

As I walked, I could feel my ancestors with me, wrapped around me like a protective cloak It wasn’t just fabric against my skin it was culture It was connection

I simply couldn’t wipe the proud, smirk off my face That pride beamed through every photo taken I didn’t have to explain it the honour, the connection, and the sense of cultural pride were written all over me

What made it even more meaningful was the way

created such a culturally safe space

Without needing to ask, they placed me a proud Wiradjuri woman first to open that runway section showcasing the First Nations designs They included a Welcome Ceremony They used a First Nations song, gifted for the event. It was handled with such care, authenticity and respect

These are the things I watch for carefully the small, powerful gestures that show when inclusion is genuine, not just performative When I feel them, I can relax, knowing the space is being held with real intent and integrity. This matters not just for me, but for those coming after me. My bonus daughter, Misha, is keen to step into the modelling world, and part of my journey has been ensuring that the spaces we enter are uplifting, authentic, and grounded in true cultural respect I want to lead the way, ensuring that when opportunities arise for the next generation, they step into environments that honour their culture, lift their spirits, and nurture their growth.

In that moment, it wasn’t about being a model or fitting an aesthetic ideal it was about being me, wholly and unapologetically It was about walking in my truth, carrying the voices of those who came before me, and helping light the way for those still to come

The Broader Impact

Moments like this are powerful because they ripple far beyond the individual They change lives We know that lack of representation has real-world impacts. Research led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations like the Lowitja Institute, as well as national Closing the Gap reporting, consistently shows the strong link between cultural connection, positive identity, and improved mental health outcomes

When you don’t see yourself reflected, you internalise the message that you don’t belong But when events like TFF centre diverse voices when they hand the microphone over, when they uplift every kind of beauty it rewrites those stories It replaces shame with pride It replaces invisibility with celebration

Inclusive spaces don’t just boost confidence on the day. They build resilience They affirm identities They heal

This is exactly why initiatives like Mind Your Fashion are so important Mind Your Fashion was founded to address the hidden crisis of mental health struggles within the fashion, beauty, and creative industries industries where appearance is often everything, and perfectionism can be relentless

Studies consistently show that creatives and fashion workers experience elevated rates of depression, anxiety, and eating disorders compared to the general public Research from organisations like Everymind and Deloitte Access Economics highlights that those working in creative industries are up to twice as likely to face mental health challenges, driven by systemic pressures around appearance, job insecurity, public scrutiny, and exclusion.

The impacts are even greater for those from marginalised groups, who not only battle industry expectations but also face systemic racism, stereotyping, and invisibility

Mind Your Fashion champions a different future: one where creativity flourishes alongside mental wellbeing, where inclusivity strengthens the industry instead of being treated as an afterthought

Jude’s message is simple but vital: Everyone deserves to belong Everyone deserves to be seen And mental health matters always.

Jude Kingston’s Vision

At the heart of the Toowoomba Fashion Festival stands Jude Kingston a woman whose passion for genuine inclusion has reshaped what a fashion event can look like

Let’s bring empathy and integrity back into fashion. Let’s hold ourselves and each other accountable And let’s build a future where the industry that celebrates beauty also protects the wellbeing of the people who create it - Jude Kingston

For Jude, diversity isn’t a marketing trend It’s a responsibility. She believes fashion should reflect the real, vibrant spectrum of humanity in age, in size, in culture, in ability And she sees firsthand the magic that happens when it does

Fashion is about storytelling About creating beauty, movement, emotion Let’s turn the fashion industry into a place that values humanness just as much as it values creativity - Jude Kingston

Jude’s leadership shows what’s possible when inclusion isn’t just a theme it’s woven into every decision, every runway show, every celebration

At TFF 2025, the runway wasn’t just a stage it was a powerful reflection of community, culture, and belonging Models of every background, every body type, and every story walked with pride, each showcasing the beauty of authenticity without needing to change a thing about themselves.

For me, that moment held layers of meaning I have spent my career working in rural and remote health, often in places where opportunities like runway modelling feel a world away

Until recently, I hadn’t believed that a platform like this celebrating culture, identity, and dreams could be possible for someone like me But motherhood has given me a new fire Becoming a mum has strengthened my resolve to step fully into who I am, and to chase the dreams that once felt out of reach

In my professional life, I am deeply involved in cultural safety advocacy work that calls for more than performative gestures or box-ticking It requires real partnership, genuine community engagement, and codesign with First Nations peoples to create environments that are truly safe I’m attuned to when those elements are missing I feel it instinctively, and I speak to it clearly

What made TFF 2025 stand out was that these elements were present Cultural protocols were respected, space was made with intention, and First Nations voices were not just included they were centred I felt seen not just as a model, but as a cultural leader And for that, I congratulate the TFF team because true inclusion is felt, not just spoken.

I even found myself speaking about this with my husband a fellow First Nations doctor sharing how impressed I was with the way TFF approached cultural integrity We often reflect together on what feels genuine versus what feels performative, and I remember saying, “They got it right.”

That conversation affirmed for me that the respect I felt wasn’t just personal it was something that resonated through a cultural and professional lens we both carry. In our way of being, relationality is everything it’s how we make meaning, how we stay accountable, how we lead The experience of TFF wasn’t just mine; it was held within my relationships, my reflections, and the responsibility I carry for others who will walk behind me

TFF 2025 became the bridge between my past and my future and a reminder that it is never too late to make your dreams real

This is also the spirit I am nurturing through Glamour And The Dust a platform grounded in celebrating First Nations fashion, honouring cultural pride, and advocating for broader Australian fashion when it aligns with values of inclusivity, authenticity, and respect

Through my work as a mature model and ambassador, I hope to represent not only First Nations peoples, but also the communities of rural and remote Australia whose creativity and stories deserve to be seen on every stage I walked that runway not alone, but with the strength of my ancestors behind me, the pride of my community in my heart, and a quiet hope: that someone whether young or old, male or female, from any walk of life might see me standing there, proud and unapologetic, and feel the spark of possibility ignite within themselves

You can’t be what you can’t see.

And if my presence lights even one path for someone else, then every step has been worth it Inclusivity is not about giving permission to belong. It is about recognising that we have always belonged And when fashion embraces all walks of life every age, every background, every story it becomes stronger, richer, and more powerful than ever before

The future of fashion is here And it looks like all of us

PHOTOGRAPHY: TARA FEARN // @TARA FEARN PHOTOGRAPHER STYLING: SOPHIA AVALON // @STYLIST.SOPH HAIR & MAKEUP: JESSICA BAILEY // @JESSICABAILEYMUA BTS

VIDEOGRAPHY: ISAAK SCHILLER // @ARTLIFE.FILMS IN FRAME: ARIANNE ENDRIZZI // @ARIENDRIZZI SHOT ON LOCATION AT: A VILLA GAIL // @AVILLAGAIL FEATURED DESIGNERS: @VIV.DESIGNJOURNAL @HOUSEOFFALCONE @ESHER_RAE @FLUID_THELABEL @DELATA.SHOP

After stepping away from the industry to raise her two young children, Arianne Endrizzi returns to the runwayrevisiting the six looks that marked her debut and ignited a powerful personal reawakening

Earlier this year, I walked in my first ever runway shows at Toowoomba Fashion Festival and Queensland Arts and Fashion Festival As a mum of two, it was a huge moment, not just for my career, but for me personally. Six looks across two fashion festivals

My runway debut took place at Toowoomba Fashion Festival, shortly followed by Queensland Arts and Fashion Festival For me, these were milestones that came at the start of my modelling journey and during a powerful reawakening of my identity

After stepping away from the industry to raise my two young children, I felt called back Not to chase what I missed, but because I think it’s important to show the world who you’ve grown into.

This editorial revisits those first six runway looks, captured in a new light by photographer Tara Fearn, against the natural beauty of Far North Queensland. Each look became a marker, fragments of a bigger story unfolding in real time

HOUSE OF JAISE

House of Jaise fuses artistry with individuality, self-expression, sustainability, and quality, to redefine luxury for the modern woman Together, we stride confidently into a future where a garment is not merely worn but lived and celebrated as an extension of the individual Our designs are a celebration of beauty, femininity and human expression, inviting women to boldly embrace and express their unique selves.

As a mature student, I began a less-travelled path of fashion later in life, finding a new sense of freedom and joy in creating House of Jaise Here, I could freely explore ideas and immerse into a brave new world of imagination, artistry and self-expression

In my youth, I was very reserved and struggled to express myself and relate to others I also suffer from a lifelong eyesight disorder which has progressively got worse over the years, sometimes causing me to change careers, constantly searching for something I could embrace and do well From a young age I discovered solace in crafting clothes for my dolls, having persuaded my mother to acquire a second-hand Singer sewing machine from our neighbour. Around the same time, I also convinced her to let me attend dance classes which I thoroughly enjoyed

These creative pursuits, both in dance and fashion, became my means of self-expression when words failed me. However, as the years passed, I gravitated towards more conventional paths, entering the corporate realms of business analysis and real estate, though never fully embracing them as my unyielding creative spirit yearned for something more

After many years of searching, and finally after some personal tragedies losing close family members, I finally decided to place my energies into the realm of creativity that had long been sleeping within me. Thus, I embarked on a transformative journey, immersing myself in the world of fashion design and craftsmanship and have not looked back.

While studying fashion at Tafe, in 2023, I won multiple design awards for my work at Rise to the Runway, which gave me the confidence to pursue fashion more seriously Since then, I’ve completed numerous fashion design courses as a mature-age student, created small collections, and shown my work locally all while navigating the challenges of a degenerative eye condition causing major vision loss and late, single motherhood and a sort of hypersensitive, synesthetic existence.

Fashion design isn’t just a career path for me it’s a lifeline It helps me process my situation, stay hopeful, and persevere through the daily obstacles I face I create bright, uplifting designs that celebrate individuality, expression, and the beauty of life no matter your circumstances

WOULD SAY NOW

By Cat Ardi-Brennan

IIf there’s one thing I’ve learned between a bad martini and a good decision (and honestly, who can always tell the difference?), it’s this: the holidays are less about perfection and more about the pulse of the moment. And this year, as tinsel tangles with TikTok trends and Kim Kardashian is checks notes selling merkins, I find myself asking: what would Carrie Bradshaw make of Christmas 2025?

Let’s forget And Just Like That for a second. Let’s return to the Carrie, Charlotte, Samantha and Miranda of cosmos and cabs, of answering machines and Manolos The women who could dissect a man, a mood or a metaphor in one sentence and still make their brunch reservation. In world that’s seen enough upheaval to fill a box set, what does Christmas mean when everything feels both extra and exhausted?

THENEWAUTHENTICITY: PIMPLEPATCHESASPARTYWEAR.

KIM K’S FAUX FUR G-BANGERS AND THE ART OF AUDACITY.

In Carrie’s day, the only patch we discussed was the nicotine one. Now, we wear our pimple patches like badges of honour, glittering on Zoom calls and supermarket runs alike. Samantha would call it “liberation via adhesion.” There’s something wonderfully raw about this kind of confidence in an unfiltered, un-Facetuned sparkle that says, I’m here, blemishes and all

TOOWOOMBAISHAVINGAMOMENT.

If Samantha were still strutting the Meatpacking District, she’d be the first to buy three One for herself, one for a lover and one for the PR stunt of it all. Because that’s the 2025 Christmas mood - cheeky, self-aware, entrepreneurial A fur thong for the masses, a metaphor for reinvention. Carrie would write in her column: “In a world obsessed with bareness, maybe the boldest move is covering up strategically.” It’s not for me (and I imagine 99% of folk) but I can appreciate the marketing prowess behind it

Yes, Toowoomba Because the story of 2025 isn’t just told in Manhattan lofts or Bondi brunch spots it’s in regional renaissance. Boutique pop-ups, candlelit rock symphonies and backyard champagne tastings have replaced the bigcity hustle. The locals have mastered the kind of low-key luxury Carrie would have adored: a soft, tulle dress, a spritz under the stars and zero pretentiousness

REDEFINING THE RITUAL.

Charlotte would be colour-coding the wrapping paper, of course, but even she would admit the ritual has shifted Christmas 2025 is less about perfection and more about participation Wrapping done at Grand Central for a cold coin donation to charity. It’s mismatched plates, candle wax on the table and friends you’ve collected like vintage champagne flutes

FRIENDSHIP, THE FOREVER TREND.

Miranda would remind us (sternly, lovingly) that the true luxury of any season is time, with people who get you The city girls always knew this: no matter how chaotic the dates, deadlines or disasters, the table was always set for four And maybe this Christmas, our “table” looks like a FaceTime call, a friend’s verandah, or a night out at Fitzy’s with a friend who saw you through all those weird years (most likely at Fitzy’s!)

So, as 2025 winds down and the fairy lights flicker across both Fifth Avenue and the Darling Downs, I can’t help but think Carrie would approve She’d lift her glass – a cosmo, naturally and muse: “Maybe Christmas was never about the gift wrap or the mistletoe. Maybe it was about showing up in your own story whether you’re in heels, Ugg boots or something delightfully merkin-adjacent. The city might change, but the sparkle? Now that’s eternal ”

Here’s to a Christmas that’s bold, a little bit brazen and unapologetically real

The Misinterpretation of Fashion

“But what you don’t know is that sweater is not just blue, The blue represents millions of dollars of countless jobs, and it’s sort of comical how you think you’ve made a choice that exempts you from the fashion industry”

- Devil Wears Prada

From a young age, we’re told that caring how we look is shallow, or that it somehow makes us less intelligent Yet, our brains calculate our peer’s value within 30 seconds. So why is it wrong to strive for a good impression? The narrative about beauty being vain is dated, beauty isn’t about just looking good, it’s about how you want to be perceived When I was younger, I wanted nothing to do with fashion. I lived in baggy band shirts and oversized flannels; I was convinced I was opting out of the system entirely. What I misunderstood about fashion though is that even that was an expression- I wanted to be perceived as rebellious and ‘different’ The biggest misinterpretation about fashion is that it can be neutral; in truth, it always asserts a meaning

Creating garments is how I realised I was misinterpreting fashion; this caused me to shift my mindset The first dress I made was inspired by the beautiful women in my life Growing up, my mother and grandmother were very crafty Spending time with them fostered my own creativity, therefore, when I visited Nepal, I was inspired to sew my first dress for my high school semi-formal on a mechanical sewing machine

Later, when I created my first high-fashion dress – ‘The Athena Dress’ after graduating high school, I wanted it to be romantic and timeless.

I researched fabric, looking for something that would move beautifully when gathered- I eventually settled on a lightweight satin

Prototyping the bodice was a challenge; I wanted clean style lines that hugged the body even after the tiles and pearl beads were placed on top This took endless rounds of pinning, unpicking and adjustments which made me learn firsthand how much thought goes into every seam placement. Converting the raw materials by hand into a wearable felt surreal but more importantly, it made me respect the invisible labour behind every garment.

With this perspective, I began noticing the gap between creation and consumption. Friend’s bragging about a ‘bargain’ they got from ‘Temu’ stopped feeling like a flex; instead, it highlighted how disposable fashion has become. Whilst people within the fashion industry may already be aware of this, it’s the people like that of my younger self who don’t give fashion a second thought, that can make a change.

The fact is, most of us don’t take apart our garments or think about the construction We choose our styles based on the trends or ‘aesthetics’ we’re fed online through algorithms, often without questioning the system. This culture of passive consumption is what makes conversations about sustainability so vital. It isn’t that people don’t care, it’s that large corporations have made the process invisible

I believe that change begins from valuing the invisible hands of labour behind our garments, that way we can shift fashion from being disposable to something that lasts. Furthermore, thinking about this process caused me to reflect on my own path forward

“So, what’s next?” I’ll be honest, I don’t have a concrete plan, but I do have a list of goals I’m working towards.

Firstly, since I want to work on creating my first collection! Secondly, as I do not currently have any formal education in fashion, I’ve been prioritising learn about technical pattern draping and construction- specifically how I fabrics respond to tension at darts, pleats and curved seams Finally, my overarching goal is to intergrade technology into fashion.

My biggest challenge currently, is balancing fashion with being a full-time engineering student However, as I progress through my degree, I hope to intertwine engineering with fashion – whether that’s through utilising technology in an artistic and aesthetic way, developing innovative textiles, designing mechanisms for versatility, or finding better systems for reusing disposed clothing

The best part of fashion is the way every path overlaps and builds upon each other Whatever I choose to pursue, contributes to the bigger picture. I have so much to learn, and I know I have exactly the right amount of time to do so

Weaving My Fashion Story

Ialways saw the world as one big tapestry I grew up in Ukraine, where fashion wasn’t just about what you wore it was a quiet rebellion, a personal ritual, and sometimes, a form of art that spoke louder than words I remember flipping through worn-out fashion magazines, studying every page like it held secrets The ‘90s supermodels Christy, Linda, Cindy... They weren’t just beautiful; they had presence. And even from my small corner of the world, I felt drawn into that world

Not every trend made sense to me some felt far away from my reality but that didn’t stop me from being fascinated. I started to notice what made something work, even if it was unconventional Fashion became my way of experimenting with identity, and little by little, I began to shape a style of my own I didn’t have endless resources, but I had a good eye I learned how to work with what I had playing with color, layering, texture making something special out of something simple. That instinct, that creative play, was the beginning of everything

In Ukraine, there’s always been this unspoken rule that a woman should present herself well not for show, but out of respect I carried that with me To me, dressing with intention is a kind of language. It says, I’m here. I see myself clearly.

When I began traveling, everything changed In Southeast Asia, I fell in love with streetwear with how free it felt, how expressive and unexpected it could be It broke all the rules I thought mattered and introduced me to a world where opposites could live together polished and raw, minimal and loud, delicate and bold. That kind of freedom opened my creative mind in a new way It gave me permission to mix things that shouldn’t go together and watch them work

Starting over in Australia was one of the biggest shifts in my life. I left everything familiar behind my culture, language, support system and started from scratch It was humbling There were moments I doubted myself Fashion is a tough industry to break into, especially as an outsider. But I kept going I knew I had something real to offer

That belief was put to the test when I was studying editorial styling I poured everything I had into one assignment all my experiences, emotions, and the eye I’d trained for years And then something incredible happened: my work was published, not just once, but in respected French and Australian magazines It was a moment of deep confirmation Not just that I belonged, but that my voice my vision mattered

Since then, I’ve kept building. As a stylist and creative director, I see every project as a new story waiting to be told What drives me now is helping people connect with who they really are through what they wear not just to look good, but to feel seen Fashion can be healing, empowering, surprising It’s not about trends it’s about truth.

Every look I create is an offering. And every day, I get to wake up and do what I love collaborate, create, and help people see their own beauty reflected back at them For that, I am endlessly grateful. Before you say a single word, your style has already spoken

WALKINGHERGOLDEN ERAOFEMPOWERMENT

I remember the first time I ever saw 68-yearold Australian classic model Maibritt Dawson. It was at the very first casting for Toowoomba Fashion Festival 2024, held at Ryley Jewellery Creations in the heart of Toowoomba. Maibritt was among a crowded room of women and girls — all ages, all walks of life, each with their own distinct look. But there was something about Maibritt that stood out.

It wasn’t just her age representing the golden era of women in an industry that often celebrates youth and chases perfection. Maibritt’s beauty certainly shone, but it was more than that. It was her confidence the kind that can’t be applied with lipstick or defined by the height of your heels It’s a confidence built brick by brick, shaped by experience, wisdom, and resilience.

She nailed her catwalk that day, impressing the judges and securing her debut at the inaugural Toowoomba Fashion Festival

Since then, Maibritt has backed it up time and again walking runways across the state, including this year’s TFF, Queensland Arts and Fashion Festival, and Ravishing Fashionistas.

“She doesn’t just represent women of her age she embodies women of every age.”

She has earned her place in South East Queensland’s modelling scene and extended her reach internationally, shooting in New Zealand and most recently starring as an heiress in an editorial campaign for Queensland streetwear designer Jaslar Pearl, showcased in Las Vegas

As the official journalist for Toowoomba Fashion Festival, I’ve had the honour of witnessing shy debutants bloom and grow on the catwalk over the past few years

I’ve seen countless models develop professionalism, confidence, and style, transforming from nervous newcomers into fully realized runway talents. But there has always been something about Maibritt that stayed with me from the very first time we met, when she said: “You should model, too ”

That moment captured her unwavering belief in herself and others the ability to inspire those around her to take a chance, step out, and own the spotlight Watching Maibritt on the runway, she doesn’t just represent women of her age she embodies women of all ages. Without her example, her encouragement, perhaps I would have stayed beside the catwalk instead of stepping onto it

“If Maibritt can do it, I can too,” I told myself, in awe of a woman in her golden era gracefully redefining what beauty and fashion looks like, and embracing the runway

“Maibritt is not just modelling, she’s inspiring.”

Since that moment, I’ve watched her lift countless others into the spotlight, inspiring them to shine even guiding a relative from the UK to step confidently into her own model moment, experiencing a full editorial shoot firsthand in Australia This is what true empowerment looks like

“Maibritt Dawson isn’t merely walking the runway she’s walking proof that it’s never too late to live your dream.”

Maibritt’s confidence radiates outward motivating others, opening doors, and showing that it’s never too late to step into your own magic. She isn’t just walking the runway Maibritt is living proof that dreams can be pursued at any age Her presence reminds women everywhere that confidence has no expiration date, and beauty only deepens with time.

In our one-hour video interview, Maibritt opens up about her journey, her philosophy on self-belief, and the power of stepping into the spotlight at any stage of life

Stay tuned for the full interview, coming soon to @Fashion field mag and @realfashion.tv, where Maibritt shares her inspiring journey, industry insights, and hopes for the future. T

IN A WORLD WHERE FASHION IS OFTEN ABOUT CONSUMPTION, CINDY IS PROVING THAT THE MOST MEANINGFUL STYLE COMES FROM CONNECTION, CARE, AND PURPOSE. THROUGH KINDHER THREADS, HER NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANISATION, SHE'S TRANSFORMING FASHION FROM A TRANSACTION INTO AN ACT OF EMPOWERMENT

Cindy partners with local organisations to provide complimentary styling experiences to women navigating hardship By reimagining new and gently loved clothing, KindHer Threads promotes sustainability while building confidence and community

Cindy's approach is distinctly woman-to-woman. She understands that what you wear matters a well-fitted outfit can shift how you move through the world and remind you of your worth

Her impact hasn't gone unnoticed Cindy is a finalist in the regional category for the APAC Women Changing the World Awards recognition that speaks to the ripple effect of her work across the region.

In regional Australia, where community is everything, Cindy's work resonates deeply. She's celebrating the power of fashion in the everyday moments where a woman finds herself again through style

Keep an eye out for our full sit-down interview in the next issue of Fashion Field Magazine.

www.theknowskin.com.au

FASHION THRIFT SOCIETY

There’s nothing ordinary about a Fashion Thrift Society weekend. Picture a warehouse buzzing with music, colour, and creativity, where vintage gems hang beside local labels and shoppers queue for tattoos between racks of denim. Founded in 2021 by Melody McCarthy in Australia, Fashion Thrift Society has turned second-hand shopping into a festival experience now touring Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.

What began as a small community market has evolved into a global celebration of style, sustainability, and self-expression At its heart, Fashion Thrift Society is about connection between people, clothes, and the planet. Each event blends curated wardrobes, independent designers, and immersive experiences to prove that conscious fashion can be both exciting and accessible

As the world embraces more mindful ways to consume fashion, Fashion Thrift Society stands out as a movement that makes sustainability aspirational. In this piece, Melody McCarthy shares how a grassroots idea became an international phenomenon, the lessons learned along the way, and why the future of fashion is thrifted, thoughtful, and thriving.

Can you share the story behind how Fashion Thrift Society first came to life?

Fashion Thrift Society began in 2021 as a small fun fashion idea a way to bring together fashion lovers to shop from each others wardrobes and grab a bargain. I had always been passionate about second-hand fashion, and had stalls at markets and sold vintage for some years prior The vision was to create more than a market: a fashion festival that celebrated creativity, community, and conscious consumption What started as a few racks of clothes in one city has now grown into a touring event across Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.

What have been some of the biggest challenges and milestones along the way?

One of the biggest challenges has been scaling something grassroots into a large-scale operation without losing the heart of it Logistics like touring across 25+ cities, managing hundreds of vendors, and handling the costs of venues, staff, and travel have tested us.

Milestones include:

Launching in three countries within four years

Building a team of seven salaried staff plus a wider network of creatives and coordinators

Partnering with global platforms like Depop and Red Bull while still spotlighting local sellers and artists

These moments showed us that what we were creating resonated beyond just one city it was a movement

How have you seen attitudes toward secondhand fashion evolve since you first started?

When we started, thrifting and preloved fashion were still seen by some as “alternative ” Today, it’s mainstream, aspirational, and part of everyday wardrobes People want unique pieces, they want stories behind what they wear, and they’re also more conscious of the environmental impact of fast fashion

Social media, rising sustainability awareness, and the creativity of younger generations has driven this change and our events have helped make second-hand shopping exciting, accessible, and cultural

How do you go about curating your sellers and creating such unique event experiences?

Curation is at the heart of what we do. We carefully review every stall application to ensure sellers align with our values: authentic vintage, quality preloved wardrobes, and independent brands with originality We don’t allow fast fashion or counterfeit stock.

Beyond fashion, we curate unique experiences from live music, food trucks, pop up bars, tooth gems, haircuts, tattoos and piercings to aura readings, jewellery making, and photobooths so the event feels like a festival rather than just a market. It’s about balance: affordability for shoppers, opportunity for vendors, and sustainability for the planet

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs and creatives hoping to build something of their own?

My biggest advice is: start small, start messy, but start. Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment the journey will shape itself once you begin Build a strong sense of community around your idea, because that’s what sustains you when challenges come up. Stay authentic to your values, especially if you’re in fashion or sustainability, because people can feel when something is genuine And finally dream big but execute consistently That’s how grassroots ideas turn into global movements.

Sarah Neill is revolutionising how we shop for clothes. After years of struggling with fit and representation in fashion, she founded Mys Tyler a platform that's changing the game one body type at a time. We asked Sarah about the journey, the challenges, and why seeing clothes on someone who looks like you changes everything. Here's what we found out.

So, tell us—how did Mys Tyler come to life?

What sparked the idea, and what were those early days like?

I'm originally from Sydney but lived in New York for nearly a decade While I was there, I defaulted to my work wardrobe of black trousers and a blazer I knew I could be having more fun with my clothes, but I always found shopping overwhelming I never knew what to pick up or how to put pieces together. I would try on ten things and not like any of them, or I would buy something and never wear it Even though I wanted to enjoy fashion more, I rarely ended up buying anything.

I decided to recruit a fashionable friend to shop with me and help me pick out outfits But I quickly realised that the pieces she chose looked great on her but didn't suit me at all She was an expert in styling her body, not mine

That was when it hit me: I didn't just need style inspiration. I needed inspiration from someone with a body like mine, who enjoyed fashion and could do the work of discovering, trying on, and styling clothes for me I tried searching Instagram for women who looked similar, but there was no way to filter by height or size. Someone could look proportionately like me but be 5'2" instead of 5'8", which would change how clothes fit completely.

Having worked in consumer technology, I was trained to spot problems and design solutions I came up with the idea for Mys Tyler, a play on "My Styler," in 2013 and registered the domain in 2014 I built wireframes, created a go-tomarket strategy, and even started a database of diverse celebrities. It took six years of validating the idea with friends and living with the problem before I decided to quit my job, return to Australia, and build Mys Tyler full time.

Your background is pretty diverse—marketing, psychology, tech, startups. How has all of that shaped Mys Tyler? Any particular lessons or skills that have been game-changers?

I studied marketing and psychology, which taught me to think deeply about how people feel and behave. I spent the first decade of my career in marketing, where I loved uncovering customer insights to help communicate how products could solve real problems. Later, working in consumer tech, I moved into more of an intrapreneur role, using these insights not just to shape marketing but also to influence product design so it better met customers' needs

In 2013, I founded my first business, Doodad, a data-only SIM card for international travellers, back when most people switched off data overseas to avoid "bill shock." From that point on, I've been hooked on building and scaling startups Whenever I see a problem, I can't help but try to use technology to solve it I've also built a weather app, a festival navigation app, and prototyped a few others, including a dating app and a budgeting app. If you have an app idea, let's chat

Just before Mys Tyler, I spent six years as Chief of Staff and VP, Corporate Development at Mint Mobile We were the fastest-growing private company in the US, and last year the company achieved $2 billion in revenue It was an incredible experience working alongside the CEO on all aspects of the business operations, finance, product, and marketing Two areas I focused on that have been particularly useful for Mys Tyler are influencer marketing and affiliate marketing.

My biggest lesson when it comes to startups is to be authentic and human When people know there's a real person behind the scenes doing their best, you build stronger connections, and it allows room to experiment, make mistakes, and learn without losing trust

Every founder has their highs and lows. What have been some of your biggest wins, and what's caught you off guard or tested you along the way?

The biggest challenge has been building something that requires both tech and community With my SIM card business, once the tech worked, it worked for everyone even if we had just one customer With Mys Tyler, the technology is worthless without people using it.

Every founder has their highs and lows. What have been some of your biggest wins, and what's caught you off guard or tested you along the way?

Momentum

At the start, there is none You're creating everything yourself, reviewing your own work, and trying to push things forward without any external force It can feel incredibly draining

Wearing many hats

As a founder, you quickly stop being an expert at any one thing. You're spread across every function product, marketing, operations, finance so it can feel like you're doing a mediocre job at everything You often have to let some things drop because it's impossible to stay on top of it all It's chaos, and learning to make peace with that is essential.

Raising capital

If you're building something like Mys Tyler, you need millions to get it off the ground. Raising capital becomes a key part of the job, and it is exhausting You face rejection constantly I've been turned down hundreds of times You have to find the people who can believe in your vision. It's especially challenging as a woman raising funds for a female-focused business in a male-dominated industry.

Living Lean

People often assume that raising millions means you personally get paid well, but that's not always the case. I've not been able to take a salary and so I have to live very leanly

I don't have a car, I avoid taxis, I don't buy clothes or get my nails or hair done All my savings go into the business I have to carefully balance personal survival with investing in the company, deciding between paying myself and making product improvements or going without. If I hadn't started Mys Tyler I'd be in a much better financial position, but I am passionate about it and so these are sacrifices I've been happy to make

Let's talk about Fit Check—it's in beta now. What's the story behind it, and what do you hope it brings to the table for your community and the bigger conversation around sizing?

Returns are a huge issue for the fashion industry Between 30 and 50 per cent of online clothing purchases are returned, costing brands up to 66 per cent of the retail price Many of these items never get resold, which is devastating for both the environment and the bottom line.

Several tools, like TrueFit, have tried to solve the fit problem, but none have made a significant impact The fact that we've been able to address it on our platform is a major milestone

Now, with FitCheck, we are working directly with retailers to improve fit confidence and reduce returns by showing how an item fits a range of bodies at the point of sale

With FitCheck, we are tackling both fit and representation, creating a better experience for shoppers, brands, and the planet.

You can see it in action here

As Mys Tyler continues to grow, what's been key to getting the word out? And looking forward, where do you see this going? What would you say to someone who wants to make their mark in fashion or community-driven work?

Reach – We've had some fantastic PR, which has helped us reach a wide audience, including features on The Morning Show, Channel 7 News, and in Refinery29, BuzzFeed, and the Daily Mail Our community also plays a big role in expanding our reach Our creators share fashion content online, particularly on Instagram, which brings more people into the Mys Tyler community Meta has been our primary paid channel and has also been very effective.

Vision – Our goal is to make fashion more inclusive, sustainable, and profitable for everyone. Clothes play a huge role in daily confidence, yet most women, myself included, struggle with the shopping process. We want everyone to feel good in what they wear every day Fashion is currently not representative, which can make people feel abnormal because 99.9 per cent of us don't look like traditional fashion models That's why we publish our data on what women actually look like to help drive the industry towards greater representation This not only makes people feel better but also reduces returns, so it's a win-win

Advice – Start with a real problem you feel deeply connected to, and don't wait for everything to be perfect. Build something small, learn quickly, and keep iterating If you are authentic and solving a genuine need, people will join you

Meet Madeline Bresson Queensland’s Rising Star

StoryandStylingbyMelanieCanosa@melaniecanosa| @realfashion.tv

PhotographybyRomeoDesepida@thisisromes| @romescreativecollective

BeautybyKTBeautybyKatrionaAllen@ktbeautymua

Modelintheframe:@madelinebressen

SHE’S GRACED RUNWAYS, FRONTED CAMPAIGNS, AND EVEN PLAYED A ROLE IN A VOGUE WORLD MOMENT. NOW, MODEL AND MISS WORLD AUSTRALIA FINALIST MADELINE BRESSON IS STEPPING INTO THE SPOTLIGHT ONCE AGAIN A QUEENSLAND TALENT DESTINED FOR GLOBAL RECOGNITION. SHE IS BEAUTY. SHE IS GRACE. AND SHE’S SO MUCH MORE THAN JUST A PRETTY FACE. MEET MADELINE BRESSON — QUEENSLAND’S VERY OWN RISING STAR.

In the studio, Madeline is the definition of poise and professionalism Watching her move in front of the camera is like witnessing a swan glide across the water elegant, fluid, and entirely captivating With her long limbs and golden hair cascading freely, she moves with instinct and purpose. Each pose lands perfectly; each expression tells a story.

Behind the lens, photographer Romeo Desepida matches her rhythm every click and flash captured with precision and intention, determined to do justice to the beauty Madeline delivers.

The French-Australian model has graced countless campaigns for women’s fashion labels such as Sonia Stradiotto Couture, Sacha Drake, and most recently, Kitten D’Amour. She may have the sweetness of the girl next door, but make no mistake Madeline brings her own distinctive flair

Her style embodies the spirit of Australian fashion: fresh, feminine, and full of character. With a subtle wink or a sassy hair flick, she transforms a simple shot into something unforgettable She’s the woman you can’t help but want to know

Beyond the lens, Madeline’s star continues to rise. As a Miss World Australia finalist, she stands on the verge of a dream moment with the national crown soon to be announced at a spectacular ceremony in Melbourne on November 20

Over the past two years, Madeline has proudly represented Queensland, championing Variety – the Children’s Charity through raffles, fashion fundraisers, and elegant soirée events across the Gold Coast A true embodiment that beauty comes from within, her heartfelt efforts have raised an incredible $16,000 for children in need.

But Madeline’s journey doesn’t stop there Recently, she served as the fit model double for the jaw-dropping Moulin Rouge costume design originally created for Nicole Kidman and worn by Kendall Jenner for Vogue World: Hollywood 2025

The annual event, presented by Vogue and held on October 26 at Paramount Pictures Studios in Los Angeles, delivered not just a fashion show, but a dazzling fusion of film and couture where cinematic Hollywood references were reimagined with modern-day supermodels and theatrical spectacle

Meanwhile, Katriona, of KT Beauty, sculpted Madeline’s golden locks and, at the model’s request, added a striking bleached-brow finish to the final shots a modern twist that captured both softness and strength.

Capturing Madeline’s every mood was Romeo Desepida, creative portrait photographer and, most recently, Head of Media for Gold Coast Swim Week His encouraging presence on set allowed Madeline to shine fully in her element.

From pageantry to editorial fashion and runways across Australia including Toowoomba Fashion Festival and Cairns Fashion Week Madeline Bresson’s presence continues to captivate audiences near and far.

It’s clear she’s a woman in motion going places, fast. What incredible opportunities await in 2026? We’ll be watching Perhaps the silver screen next

For Madeline, no goal is too small, and no dream too distant her shine only grows brighter with every step. From the studio lights to the world stage, Madeline Bresson’s story is only just beginning

Kendall Jenner opened the runway wearing an extraordinary crystal-encrusted bodysuit, inspired by Kidman’s lead role in Moulin Rouge and re-envisioned with a contemporary twist crafted precisely using Madeline’s identical measurements

The opportunity, presented through her agency Vivien’s Model Management, placed Madeline at the intersection of fashion history and global pop culture From Australia to the world stage, Madeline Bresson continues to prove that Queensland talent shines far beyond home.

When Madeline was photographed earlier this year for a Fashion Field Mag exclusive, it was clear her world was expanding already hinting at the remarkable milestones yet to come. In the studio, she embodied confidence, authenticity, and a gracious air of gratitude that have since become her signature.

Presented with a moodboard that was monochrome, edgy, and high fashion, the creative team felt sparks ignite Stylist Melanie Canosa and makeup artist Katriona Allen were given a brief to channel Parisian chic but with a touch of grit and glamour that mirrored the shift between seasons Melanie played with texture and contrast throughout the shoot, styling Madeline in vintage Argentine leather and structured statement looks, glammed up with gold chains and glittering accessories.

SPRING HAIR COLOUR TRENDS:

Buzzwords to Know This Season

Spring is here, and with it comes a refreshing wave of new hair colour trends that are lighting up salons everywhere. Just as fashion evolves with the seasons, so too does the language we use to describe hair colour. This year, it’s all about buzzwords that capture subtle nuances and elevate everyday shades into something aspirational. From luminous brunettes to softened blondes, the palette for spring is fresh, wearable, and incredibly chic. Let’s dive into the must-know colour trends and why they’re worth embracing right now.

Sparkle Brunette: The New Bronde

We’ve all loved the Bronde trend over the past few years a perfect blend of blonde and brunette that struck the ideal balance between sunkissed and natural This spring, we’re seeing its evolution into Sparkle Brunette.

What makes Sparkle Brunette different? It’s richer, deeper, and brighter all at once Think brunette hair enhanced with strategically placed highlights that shimmer under the light The result is multidimensional, with an almost reflective quality that catches the eye every time you move. Instead of a flat or uniform brunette, you get a finish that feels alive, vibrant, and full of personality.

This is a versatile option for brunettes who want to lighten up for spring without committing to a drastic colour change Sparkle Brunette plays beautifully with natural texture, adding depth to curls or giving straight hair a glossy, high-fashion edge.

Reflective Black: Chic with a Twist

Black hair has always been the ultimate in sleek, timeless sophistication But this season, we’re stepping away from heavy, inky black and leaning into a softer variation: Reflective Black. Inspired by the glossy tresses we’ve seen on the Kardashians, this look introduces subtle mocha tones that give the colour more dimension and warmth Black and shiny indoors but once you step outside, see that colour reflect multiple tones

Instead of a block-coloured finish, Reflective Black feels richer and more adaptable The added mocha undertones soften the severity of pure black, making it more flattering across a broader range of skin tones. The result is a luxurious, high-gloss finish that looks expensive, chic, and endlessly stylish

Reflective Black is perfect for clients who want the drama of dark hair but still crave variation and light play It photographs beautifully, making it a favourite for influencers and anyone who loves a little extra shine in their selfies.

Brown Sugar Blonde: Soft and Subtle

Blondes, you haven’t been forgotten spring is bringing you a dreamy new shade: Brown Sugar Blonde This isn’t your icy platinum or overly warm golden tone. Instead, it’s a balanced blend that’s soft, subtle, and oh-so sophisticated

Brown Sugar Blonde keeps the brightness that blondes love but tones down harshness by incorporating neutral ash hues It’s warm enough to feel vibrant, but without the brassiness that can sometimes come with blonde hair. The result? A blonde that looks effortless, modern, and wearable

This shade is especially flattering as we head into the sunnier months it complements spring wardrobes filled with florals and pastels yet transitions seamlessly into summer.

The Bigger Picture: Hair Health Matters

While colour trends steal the spotlight, none of them truly shine without a strong foundation: healthy hair The gloss, reflection, and multidimensional tones we crave rely heavily on the condition of the hair itself. Over-processed or weakened strands simply don’t hold colour as well or look as vibrant

That’s why there’s been a major shift toward holistic beauty taking care of hair from the inside out Top stylists and clients alike are turning to ingestible beauty products to support hair growth, strength, and shine. These supplements work on a cellular level, nourishing hair follicles and ensuring your strands have the resilience to carry these trend-forward colours with confidence.

One of the standout products in this space is Hairology by Vida Glow, an ingestible supplement designed specifically for hair health. By targeting hair at the follicle, Hairology helps reduce hair thinning, supports growth, and improves overall strength It’s a game-changer for anyone who wants not just a beautiful colour, but also the thickness and vitality to show it off

At Minx, we love recommending Hairology because it delivers results that complement our colouring services perfectly When your hair is healthy, it’s more receptive to colour, holds onto pigment longer, and reflects light in that glossy, luxurious way that makes these trends pop. Best of all, it’s easy to incorporate into your daily routine You can find Hairology available directly on our website, making it simple to invest in your hair’s future

Final Thoughts: Colour Meets Care

This spring, hair colour is all about subtle evolution. Sparkle Brunette adds light and dimension to a timeless shade, Reflective Black softens boldness with mocha tones, and Brown Sugar Blonde refines classic blonde into something fresh and modern. These buzzwords aren’t just marketing they reflect a deeper understanding of how small shifts in colour placement and tone can transform the way we feel and present ourselves.

But remember: no matter how on-trend the colour, healthy hair will always be the foundation. That’s why integrating ingestible beauty into your routine is more than just a wellness trend it’s a necessity for keeping your hair strong, glossy, and future-proofed against styling and colouring.

So, whether you’re ready to sparkle, reflect, or sweeten up your blonde, make this spring the season you embrace both style and substance Pair the right shade with the right care, and your hair will thank you not just this season, but for many to come.

Love Beau xx

Growing up in a family of fashion entrepreneurs, Josh's Monday night dinners weren't casual catch-ups they were unintentional strategy sessions. One recurring frustration stuck with him: "How the f*ck am I going to get rid of last season's stock?" That pain point became his opportunity.

Today, Josh is the founder of LASTLOOK, Australia's first online warehouse sale platform, disrupting an industry plagued by chaotic in-person sales and excess inventory.

From family dinners to founding a startup—what sparked the idea for LASTLOOK, and what have been the pivotal moments in building this business?

Growing up in a family of fashion entrepreneurs, Monday night dinners weren't casual catch-ups, they were unintentional strategy sessions filled with business updates One recurring topic, and frustration, was always the same: "How the f*ck am I going to get rid of last season's stock?"

At the time, I was the youngest at the table, mostly just listening But after hearing that same pain point over and over again, it stuck with me. So, I decided to take a crack at solving my family's biggest bottleneck and create a dead stock marketplace.

When I first started, I genuinely thought it would be simple: get dead stock from brands, throw it onto a marketplace, and customers would just show up and buy it Simple right? As I kept going and learned more, reality hit hard. Building a two-sided marketplace isn't easy.

In fact, platforms like Airbnb, Uber, Amazon, and eBay are proof of how complex it is It's not a normal business model where you have one avatar to sell to

You're solving problems for two audiences and trying to make sure they both win (and get along) In my case, I've got two sides, the brands and the shoppers - with me stuck right in the middle

My job is to figure out how to best serve both: help brands clear their dead stock, while giving shoppers access to insane deals, all the time It sounds simple, but finding that perfect balance is much harder than anyone could imagine I've learnt that a lot of businesses sound simple from a high-level perspective - only once you stick your teeth into it do you find out how complex it is really is.

Everything I have done to date has been in the pursuit of finding that equilibrium between the brand and the shopper I need to make sure I have the right brands onboard, for the right audience – otherwise every sale I do will flop. I've learnt that this is the path to achieving product-market fit

Becoming Australia's First Online Warehouse Sale was actually a pivot that came after interviewing potential shoppers One woman told me she broke a toe at a warehouse sale after waiting in line for five hours What a nightmare When I looked deeper, I realised her experience wasn't unique; most shoppers described warehouse sales as chaotic, stressful, and exhausting.

On the flip side, brands didn't enjoy running them either, they're a logistical and management nightmare That's when the light bulb really went off: This could be the opportunity to solve a pain point for both sides - giving brands an easier way to clear stock, and shoppers a better way to shop warehouse deals

There wasn't one single "lowest moment" I can point to However, it definitely has been one of the mentally toughest things I've ever done. I had a co-founder who left me, have been rejected by hundreds of brands, investors, people who I have asked to come on to advise People with much more experience than me were telling me this isn't going to work.

If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of advice before launching LASTLOOK, what would it be?

To be honest, with all that negative feedback – I'm seriously not sure why I haven't quit by now Being a solo founder is tough, especially when you're trying to do something with an extremely high barrier to entry

In saying that, I have learnt and developed resilience. Every 'no' sucks, and I get them pretty often

Building a startup isn't for the faint of heart.

What have been your darkest moments, your biggest wins, and what's kept you going through it all?

But I'd say what's more important is your speed to recover from them If it's a disappointing rejection, I'll let myself be down for a bit – but then I'll get caffeinated and try find someone else to reject me

When I first started out, I made the mistake of thinking I knew what my ideal customers want If I would have spent more time researching their pain points and needs, I would have saved a lot of time and money.

I learnt later that this was a selfish act I'd advise to be selfless The problem you're solving isn't about you, it's about the millions of people you're trying to solve it for

How do you approach building LASTLOOK? What principles guide your decisions and shape the platform's direction?

My creative vision is driven by what the needs and wants of my ideal customers. If they're happy, I'm happy.

What's next for LASTLOOK? Where do you see the platform—and yourself—in the next few years?

I see LASTLOOK acting almost as a dead stock clearance agent for brands The same way people use real estate agents to sell their house, I want people to come to me to sell their dead stock I am currently looking at expanding LASTLOOK's services to increase revenue, whereby I offer brands an additional service to do extensive marketing campaigns, all in an effort to help them clear their dead stock

RETRO RESET POLKA DOTS, PLAIDS & POWER SUITS

BY HANNAH BLAKE

Spring brings a sense of renewal, and fashion is channelling it through updated takes on the classics. Polka dots, plaids, and power suits are everywhere this season, but not in the way you remember them. They’ve been reworked, feeling lighter, sharper, and more versatile for spring wardrobes The familiar shapes and patterns are back, but they’ve been softened, modernised, and made effortless enough to work in everyday dressing

Plaid

Power suit

Plaid is also having a moment, but with a softer edge than we're used to seeing Instead of heavy wool checks, spring plaids are lighter, made from cottons, linens, and airy blends Pastels and sun-washed tones are taking over, moving the pattern away from winter and into warmweather dressing. Cropped plaid jackets over slip dresses, checked skirts with crisp white shirts, or relaxed plaid blazers paired with sneakers are some of the season's key interpretations The effect is polished without feeling strict, making plaid a print you can wear from weekday to weekend without overthinking it. Plaid also has an innate adaptability. Depending on how it's styled, it can read preppy, casual, or even slightly edgy This makes it a valuable spring staple for those who want a pattern that can carry them through different occasions effortlessly

Polka dots

Polka dots are one of the season's most playful prints. They're showing up oversized on dresses, micro on blouses, and combined in multiple scales Designers are using them in crisp black and white for impact, but also in unexpected colours like ballet pink, cherry red, and sky blue On the streets, dots are being paired with denim or layered under blazers, proving they're more than a classic throwback. This spring, they're graphic, confident, and surprisingly easy to wear The beauty of polka dots is their versatility They can feel romantic, quirky, or striking depending on the scale, fabric, and styling. Pair a lightweight dot dress with sneakers for weekend errands or tuck a dotted blouse into tailored trousers for a more polished look Either way, dots are proving they can fit seamlessly into contemporary wardrobes

Then there's the power suit, the standout silhouette of the season It has moved far beyond the corporate uniform it once was and is now being worn in every possible way Spring brings suits in linen and cotton blends, often in fresh shades like butter yellow, sage green, or off-white. Blazers are oversized, trousers are relaxed, and styling is flexible. Some wear them with crop tops, others with nothing underneath, and plenty are pairing them with flats or sneakers instead of heels The result is tailoring with ease, strong but never stiff Power suits now feel approachable, wearable, and surprisingly relaxed, offering a sense of structure without feeling formal. They work for brunch, meetings, casual nights out, or even as a statement on holiday

Retro

This spring, it's all about pieces with personality that still leave room for individuality. Retro influences give them familiarity, but the way we're wearing them now makes them modern Instead of following strict rules, it's about options A dot dress with chunky sandals, a pastel plaid blazer over denim shorts, or a soft suit in pale green worn with slides, all of these combinations feel effortless, contemporary, and distinctly wearable. The retro reset goes beyond nostalgia. It's about taking familiar styles and making them feel modern, effortless, and relevant These trends are not just resurfacing They're evolving Polka dots, plaids, and power suits are proving that classic pieces don't have to feel dated. With updated fabrics, lighter cuts, and versatile styling, they've become essentials for a spring wardrobe that is playful, polished, and adaptable

In the end, the beauty of this season is that the past doesn't restrict us It inspires us Spring's retro reset is less about replicating what came before and more about creating looks that feel right now It's a reminder that style, like the season itself, is about growth, freshness, and possibilities For spring, dots, plaids, and suits are the perfect pieces to reset your wardrobe, keeping the classics while giving them new life.