For over 85 years, Sussan has been celebrating the spirit of Australian women. Our 'For Women. By Women.' series highlights the remarkable women behind the brand, whose creativity and expertise shape everything we do.

Behind every accessory at Sussan is a woman who knows the power of the perfect finishing touch. This month, we speak with Amber from our buying team about her thoughtful approach to getting dressed and how working at Sussan has shaped her style, sparked her sense of wonder, and reminded her why designing “for women, by women”, isn't just a tagline, it's a personal mission.

What do you hope women feel when they step into a Sussan store or shop with us online?

I hope every woman feels the care and thoughtfulness behind every product. Each piece of jewellery, bag, belt, and lifestyle item is designed with women's needs in mind, prioritising both functionality and practicality. Our goal is for every woman to feel empowered and stylish when wearing our products.

What does 'For Women. By Women.' mean to you in the context of your work?

For me, 'For Women. By Women.' is about being part of a larger mission, one that's focused on empowering women through the clothing we create. In my role, I'm always thinking about the women we design for, ensuring their needs and confidence remain at the heart of every decision. It's a constant reminder of who I'm working for and why it matters.

What is the best piece of advice you have received from another woman?

A quote I came across recently really stuck with me: 'If you don't change it, you choose it.' It's such a powerful reminder that we have a say in the direction of our lives and making changes is key to shaping the path we want to be on.

How has working at Sussan shaped your style or approach to getting dressed?

Working at Sussan has been an amazing experience — it's a female-led environment where women with diverse styles and stories come together, inspiring and influencing one another every day. Being surrounded by such a talented and creative team has really shaped the way I approach getting dressed and made it a truly inspiring place to work.

This month, our campaign is A Sense of Wonder. What's bringing you a sense of wonder this season, in fashion and life?

This season, I'm finding a sense of wonder in slowing down and truly appreciating the quieter moments. Life can be so fast-paced and hectic, so it's felt especially meaningful to carve out space to step away from it all and just be present. On weekends, I've been making time to head down to the coast with my family, where I can relax, walk along the beach with my dogs, and simply soak in the fresh air — even in the crisp winter weather. These slower moments have been a reminder of how important it is to nurture my mental health, reset, refocus, and find beauty in the simple things. It's in those moments of stillness that I feel most connected and grounded.

Is there an accessory you're reaching for more than usual right now that elevates your everyday?

Lately, I've been gravitating towards jewellery with more distinctive shapes than I'd typically wear. Working in the accessories department has really allowed me to elevate my jewellery collection and explore styles I wouldn't normally consider. The link necklace and matching earrings have become my goto pieces — I love that I can wear them as a set or mix them with my everyday staples. They're simple enough for daily wear, but their unique design adds an unexpected twist that really elevates any look.

If you could tell the woman wearing Sussan one thing—about your work or why you do it—what would it be?

I decided to pursue a career in fashion because of my love for womenswear. This has been shaped and heavily influenced by the women in my life, especially my mum and her love of fashion. I find so much joy every day in helping my buyers create styles that women can feel their most confident in.

Wardrobe Wonders: The Pieces You’ll Wonder How You Lived Without

Pieces to build a wardrobe with ease, versatility and a little styling magic.

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a full wardrobe and thinking, “I have nothing to wear,” you’re not alone. What’s often missing? The pieces that make getting dressed easier. The outfit anchors. The quiet heroes. The wardrobe wonders.

This July, we’re embracing A Sense of Wonder — not just in statement styles or bold prints, but in the everyday pieces that bring clarity, confidence and a fresh sense of ease. Here are the pieces worth making room for.

A Wonder Dress

Forget event-only dresses. The new dress code is effortless, elevated and ready for real life. Our new-season dresses, featuring striking yet endlessly wearable prints, are designed to do more. Styled solo or layered under knits and coats, they’re the all-in-one wonders you’ll turn to again and again.

3. Mix it in print

If all-over butter feels like too much, introduce it through prints instead. The beauty of butter lies in its ability to soften rich florals and bold botanical patterns without fading into the background.

Our Abstract Foliage print blends butter with red and angel blue for a look that ties the whole collection together. Paired with solid butter-toned or neutral pieces, this print balances playful and polished. The result? A look that feels both fresh and elevated, capturing the essence of endless summer dressing.

The Mix-and-Match Set

Matching sets make mornings easier. Together, they deliver instant polish. Worn apart, they unlock outfit options you didn’t even know you had. From printed co-ords to linen pairings and softly structured suiting, these are the styles that simplify your wardrobe without skimping on joy.

Perfect for those days when denim feels too relaxed and full tailoring feels like too much, a well-cut set is your in-between solution: comfortable, considered, and ready for wherever the day takes you. This Goes With That … and everything else, too.

Wear Anywhere Leisurewear

There’s loungewear you save for home, and then there’s EssentialSoft. Designed for real life (school drop-offs, coffee runs, mid-afternoon resets), these are the off-duty essentials that look as good as they feel. The brushed finish, relaxed fit and elevated details, along with the ease of layering, all add up to pieces that soften every part of your day. Whether you’re pairing back with a trench, styling with sneakers, or simply staying in, this is a comfort that doesn’t compromise on style.

So, what’s missing from your wardrobe? Maybe it’s a transeasonal knit. Maybe it’s the essential tee that goes under it or the coat that pulls it all together. These are the pieces that make a wardrobe feel like yours — not just full, but functional. And a little bit wonderful.

A Sense of Wonder

This July, we invite you to embrace your sense of adventure and seek out wonder in the everyday.

Lean into curiosity, colour and unexpected textures, all grounded in versatility, craftsmanship, and thoughtful design.

Dress for serendipity and possibility and the thrill of wearing something that feels entirely new. From soft tailoring and striking prints to tonal surprises of citron and melon, each piece is an open invitation to stay wide-eyed, be joyfully surprised and rediscover beauty in everyday moments.

Discover wonder in the feel of a fabric, the freedom of a perfect fit and pieces you'll reach for again and again.​

Your season of wonder starts here...

This isn’t just a new colour drop. It’s a new way to see your wardrobe: with more warmth, more contrast, more wonder.

Melon softens. Citron zings. Together, they strike the perfect balance of fresh and unexpected.

This isn’t occasion-only tailoring. It’s every-day, every-way dressing that’s built on comfort and shaped for style.

Uncover a new season of soft tailoring where lightweight layers, Lyocell suiting, and easy separates come together with purpose.

Our bandana print isn’t just decorative; it’s directional. Bold but balanced. Statement-making yet entirely wearable. Designed to mix, match and move through your wardrobe with ease.

Style meets spontaneity in new-season dresses.​ Discover new styles that do more than dress the part… they bring a little wonder to the everyday.

Find dresses that feel effortless, look elevated and move with you.​

Transseasonal knits designed to shift with the seasons and spark something new each time you wear them.

The kind of layers that blur the seasons — and bring a little magic to the in-between.

Our new sleepwear collection is here. Wrapped in calm, designed for comfort, and ready to make bedtime the best part of your day. Because wonder isn’t just in how something looks, but how it feels.

Designed for ultimate softness, discover sleepwear that redefines rest and invites a sense of wonder.

Wind down with softness, warmth and wonder with our new winter florals sleepwear collection.

Featuring blooms in our Sunkissed Floral and Floral Field prints, each piece brings a gentle burst of colour and calm to cooler nights.

This month’s sleepwear was made to make you smile, featuring exclusive prints that bring joy and wonder to your wind-down routine.

Whether you're waking up or winding down, indulge in sensations that invite a sense of calm and leave you feeling wonderfully rested.

Shop the Collection

How you wear, wash, and care for your clothes impacts comfort, longevity and sustainability. Small choices can make a big difference!

How you wear, wash, and care for your clothes impacts comfort, longevity and sustainability. Small choices can make a big difference!

INTRODUCING IN OUR NATURE

In a world that rarely pauses, this month is an invitation to return to what feels natural.​

Designed with an instinct for comfort, our latest collection is grounded in rich textures, natural fibres and bold simplicity, helping you feel calm and connected for the season ahead.

This season, rediscover the joy of dressing with intention and reconnect with your true nature: to nurture yourself, care for the world around you, and feel confident in what you wear.​

It’s official. Red and pink is this season’s most confident combination.

Style them back with denim for off-duty ease or layer over neutrals. This palette proves opposites don’t just attract, they elevate. ​

This season, style is built one thoughtful layer at a time.

Layering is the foundation of cool-weather dressing. Think soft knits draped over structured shirting, or slouchy sweats offset by tailored outerwear.

It’s all about building natural warmth, depth, and ease—one effortless layering piece at a time.

From morning walks to weekends away, it’s time to head out for fresh air in new outerwear.​

With rich tones, easy shapes, and effortless layering appeal, every piece is crafted to keep you warm and grounded in the season ahead.

For work. For weekends. For winter. It’s all in our nature.

Unwind naturally with our new sleep collection, designed with instinctive comfort in mind. ​

Introducing our Winter Bloom print, a fresh take on florals with a black base that balances beauty and ease. Cornflower blue and ballet pink complement the mood, offering softness and warmth.

Shop the Collection

Words from the women who shape Sussan: past, present, and proudly moving forward.

When Sussan first introduced This Goes With That in 1981, it became one of the most recognisable phrases in Australian fashion. But it was more than just a jingle. We were making a promise that style could be simple and getting dressed didn't have to be complicated.

Now, over 40 years later, that promise remains as relevant as ever.

Women today are juggling more responsibilities than ever before, and research is starting to reflect what we have always known: what we wear affects how we feel. From shaping our mood to shifting our mindset, our clothing can alter the course of our day. That's where This Goes With That comes into play. It's not about looking back; it’s about reclaiming ease, confidence, and clarity in a time when everything else feels increasingly complicated.

To mark the return of this iconic phrase and celebrate the launch of our Heritage Collection, we asked the women of Sussan what "This Goes With That" means to them, then and now.

"Iconic then and now, This Goes With That makes me proud to be part of Sussan: an Australian brand with a long history and heritage. As a Buyer, I'm passionate about designing pieces that layer effortlessly, evolve into wardrobe staples, and last for seasons to come."

Maddy, Buying Team

"I worked in-store 22 years ago, returned in 2016 as a Business Manager, and have now been in the role for nine years. Coming back felt like coming home. My mum has shopped at Sussan for over 60 years, and I'm excited to relaunch This Goes With That and reconnect with customers' memories."

Andrea, Business Manager

When we partnered with Cotton Australia, we wanted to get to know the people behind the fabric. Brooke Summers is as passionate about Australian Cotton as the farmers who grow it. Here, she shares why it is regarded amongst the highest quality in the world, why traceability is becoming increasingly significant in fashion supply chains and how our local cotton production is becoming even more sustainable.

For over 85 years, Sussan has been perfecting the art of bedtime.

We understand that restful sleep is vital to a woman’s well-being through every chapter of life— whether you’re a new mum navigating sleepless nights or adjusting to the changes of menopause. As a brand for women, by women, we know how the right sleepwear can transform your sleep experience.

This season, our commitment continues with a focus on luxurious fabrics, sustainability, and designs that seamlessly blend style with comfort. Our Featherlight Soft, Australian Cotton, ECOVERO, and Viscose from Bamboo sleepwear collections are thoughtfully crafted to enhance how you feel during your nightly rest.

Discover the softness and luxury of our fabrics and transform every night into a moment of true self-care.

Featherlight Soft: Discover Modal’s ultimate softness

Bedtime is the perfect time to unwind and reconnect with what truly matters, and our new Featherlight Soft fabrication is here to make that moment even more special.

Designed for those who need to reclaim their rest and restore balance to their day, the Featherlight Soft collection features modal with a featherlight touch that moves with you, setting a calming tone the instant you slip it on.

The smooth, breathable fabric ensures a comfortable night’s sleep while its exceptional durability maintains its shape and keeps it looking fresh.

Enhanced with vibrant prints and an uplifting colour palette, the Featherlight Soft collection brings a touch of luxury to revitalise your nightly routine and rest.

Australian Cotton: Elevate your comfort with classic quality

Elevate your bedtime routine with the unrivalled comfort of cotton. Its cool, calming touch is perfect for lazy mornings, cosy nights, and every moment of downtime in between. Known for its natural breathability and durability, cotton also helps regulate body temperature, ensuring a truly refreshing night’s sleep.

Of course, if it’s total swaddling comfort you’re looking for, consider our 100% Australian Cotton gown.

Premium Australian cotton is renowned for its unrivalled quality and the industry’s commitment to sustainability and improving environmental outcomes. Put on a face mask, turn your phone on “do not disturb,” and indulge in the cosiest, dreamiest robe. Your to-do list will simply have to wait.

ECOVERO: Embrace eco-friendly elegance

Dress up while you rest up in ECOVERO, a revolutionary viscose fabric that combines sustainable innovation with luxurious comfort.

Made from FSC sustainably sourced and processed wood pulp, ECOVERO creates a sumptuous drape on the body and feels super soft against the skin. The fabric’s breathability and lightweight nature also make it perfect for maintaining a comfortable temperature throughout the night. With its smooth texture and elegant sheen, our ECOVERO sleepwear is ideal for hitting snooze, breakfast in bed, and a whole lot of luxurious self-care.

In recent years, summer-loving linen has become a fundamental year-round staple, which means aftercare of your linen is more important than ever. Luckily, caring for this durable fibre is easier than you think.

When we partnered with Cotton Australia, we wanted to get to know the people behind the fabric. Brooke Summers is as passionate about Australian Cotton as the farmers who grow it. Here, she shares why it is regarded amongst the highest quality in the world, why traceability is becoming increasingly significant in fashion supply chains and how our local cotton production is becoming even more sustainable.

SleepWell: A Love Letter to Rest This World Sleep Day

For more than 85 years, Sussan has been making bedtime the best time. This season, we’re taking our love of sleepwear even further with SleepWell by Sussan—a new chapter in our journey designed to celebrate the fabrics, fits, and feelings that make rest truly restorative.

From breathable natural fibres to gentle silhouettes that move with your body, every detail is designed with one ambition: helping women feel their best from dusk to dawn.

To celebrate World Sleep Day – and the theme, Make Sleep Health a Priority —we sat down with our sleepwear buyer, Katie, to talk about the art of dressing for bed, the science of softness, and the luxuries that turn bedtime into a wellness ritual.

What does a perfect night’s sleep look like for you?

It starts with slowing down – a long warm shower, a cup of tea, and slipping into my favourite soft pyjamas to unwind. A calming skincare routine, an early night, and the comfort of fresh sheets are my ideal setup for the perfect night’s sleep!

What’s the first thing you consider when designing a new sleep collection?

How it feels! What we wear to sleep in impacts the quality of our rest, which is why fabric is at the heart of our design. We focus on soft, breathable materials that promote deep, uninterrupted, and effortlessly comfortable sleep.

Why is fabric so important to our quality of sleep?

Fabric is everything – it affects how we move, how our body regulates temperature, and how comfortable we stay throughout the night. Each of our fabrics is thoughtfully designed to suit different sleep styles, whether you need moisture-wicking, lightweight comfort or gentle stretch that moves effortlessly with you. Our Bamboo Viscose Blend fabric is lightweight and super soft and will keep you cool on warm nights and warm on cool nights. Our Signature Soft sleepwear is known for its cosy softness, wrapping you in warmth for the perfect night’s sleep. Australian Cotton is breathable, long-lasting, and soft on the skin, making slipping into bed even more inviting.

What’s something people don’t always think about when it comes to sleepwear?

How it reacts to movement. You don’t sleep in one position all night, so your sleepwear shouldn’t twist, ride up, or overheat. Our fabrics have natural stretch or flow, ensuring nothing feels restrictive during the night.

This year’s World Sleep Day theme is Make Sleep Health a Priority- what role can sleepwear play in this?

The right sleepwear can make a huge difference to sleep quality. It’s about breathability, temperature regulation, and fabric that feels soothing against the skin. When you feel comfortable, you sleep better—it’s that simple.

How does your approach to sleepwear reflect changing attitudes toward sleep health?

Women are prioritising rest and self-care more than ever, and what we wear to bed plays a key role. It’s the last thing we put on at night and the first thing we feel in the morning – it sets the tone for rest and resetting. That’s why we design sleepwear with both comfort and confidence in mind. Sleepwear isn’t just about how it looks – it’s about how it makes us feel!

What’s your personal favourite fabric for sleep?

I love our Bamboo Viscose Blend fabric! It’s silky smooth without being slippery, drapes beautifully and is very gentle on the skin. It also washes well and is temperature-regulating for these hot and cold Melbourne nights!

If someone is looking to upgrade their sleepwear, where should they start?

Start with feel. Choose a fabric that instantly relaxes you the moment you put it on. Then, invest in a PJ set or nightie that makes you feel good—it’s a small change that can transform your entire night. Our Bamboo Viscose Pyjama Set is the perfect choice, designed to help you unwind with its silky-soft, breathable feel. And don’t forget the finishing touches – a cosy robe and slippers, because even those quiet moments before bed or in the morning should feel special.

As we embrace the launch of SleepWell by Sussan, we invite you to experience the difference. Better sleep starts with feeling good in what you wear to bed – and we’re here to make sure of it.

What’s a misconception people have about sleepwear?

That any old T-shirt will do. It’s the equivalent of sleeping on scratchy sheets – you might not realise how much better things could be until you experience the difference. Good sleepwear isn’t just about style; it’s about function. It helps regulate temperature, reduces discomfort, and makes the whole sleep experience feel more considered. The right sleepwear won’t twist, cling, or trap heat. It’s like investing in quality bedding – once you do, you wonder how you ever slept without it.

If you could steal one bedtime ritual from the world’s best sleepers, what would it be?

Unplugging before bed! The world’s best sleepers know that true rest starts before their head hits the pillow. Swapping screen time for a wind-down ritual like reading helps signal to the body that it’s time to relax. It’s a small habit that makes a big difference!

And finally—what’s the one piece you can’t sleep without?

I love our Stripe Cotton Boxer Short. And coming I to winter, bed socks, without a doubt. There’s something about them that instantly makes me feel cosy and relaxed! The right pair – soft, breathable, and not too tight – keeps me comfortable all night long. It’s a small thing that makes all the difference! Stay tuned for some new styles of these arriving next month.

For our June campaign, we were lucky enough to shoot at a beautiful working horse stud property managed by Helen, a former Sussan team member and lifelong supporter of the brand.

At just 17, Helen started her career as a window dresser with Sussan, helping bring the brand's iconic windows to life. Now, decades later, she is welcoming us onto her farm and into her memories. In this special For Women by Women conversation, Helen reflects on lifelong friendship, fashion, and the joy of seeing This Goes With That return.

How would you describe Sussan in one word?

Friendship.

Friendship with the people I worked with, and friendships that have lasted a lifetime.

What have been your biggest learnings in your role?

I have learnt that I can achieve far greater than I ever could have imagined, especially working with such a great team. I feel that I am pushed to my best, and I have even more to look forward to when I know that Sussan is heading towards a great future that I am excited to be part of. I have learned how to manage my time successfully in new ways to be more effective and always ahead of deadlines.

Can you tell us more about those friendships?

The best part of working at Sussan was meeting a group of girls who grew up with me—we became women, mothers, sisters, and aunties together. And it’s continued. Our children are grown now, and we’re grandparents, but we still get together and laugh about the crazy things we did at work–travelling around, visiting country stores. We had an absolute ball. But we worked hard, too.

Out of all the jobs I’ve ever had, it was my favourite. Nothing else has come close.

Any particularly funny memories from your Sussan days?

One of my fondest memories was dressing windows.

You’d hear all sorts of things that people didn’t think you could hear—things they probably shouldn't have said!

And when the This Goes With That campaign launched, people would sing it to us while we were in the window. It happened quite often.

What did This Goes With That mean back then?

This Goes With That really captured the moment. Back then, coordinated outfits were everything–tops, pants, cardigans, even sleepwear.

It was always in the back of our minds that everything had to match.

I remember when tracksuits came back into fashion–we all bought one. I had a pink and grey marle tracksuit. I was about 21, and I still remember it.

That campaign was a big deal. It’s such good nostalgia to see it come back.

WAnd finally, how do Sussan products make you feel today?

Sussan makes me feel nostalgic. I've worn their clothes my whole life, ever since I started working there as a teenager.

This coat I’m wearing is a perfect example—it’s lovely, cosy and warm. Very wearable.

And it would look great with white jeans and boots.

See? This goes with that.

At Sussan, self-care starts with sleep, which is why we are engaging women in our community to share stories about their own relationship with sleep —from the rituals that help them unwind at night to the routines that boost their mornings.

Nikki Parkinson the founder of Styling You is on a mission to empower busy women to conquer their day with confidence, but this content creator and bedtime enthusiast is equally dedicated to finding solace in the comfort of home. We sat down with Nikki to discuss all things style, self-care, and the importance of a good night’s sleep.

Breaking free from burden: An expert’s guide to prioritising your well-being and reclaiming festive fulfilment.

It might be the most wonderful time of the year, but for many women, it’s also the most stressful.

From juggling end-of-year school commitments with work deadlines to orchestrating the perfect Christmas experience, the holiday season can often feel like an overwhelming burden. The external stress from societal pressures and expectations placed on women to be the best hosts, deliver a flawless Christmas, or simply maintain a facade of having it all together can take a toll.

The emotional labour involved in selecting and wrapping gifts, hosting family gatherings, preparing elaborate meals, and ensuring everyone’s happiness often overshadows our own needs, leaving little room to truly savour the season. In the midst of these responsibilities, we often forget ourselves. As a brand created by women for women, we’re on a mission this month to remind you how to rekindle the spirit of celebration and embrace the holidays with genuine joy and fulfilment — to make the season yours.

To offer insights and guidance on managing holiday stress, establishing boundaries, and finding balance, we’ve consulted with renowned relationship psychologist Carly Dober from Enriching Lives Psychology. Here, she shares practical advice on self-care, communication and fostering collaboration within families.

How can we gain a deeper understanding of the emotional and mental burden often shouldered by women during the festive season?

Preparing, planning, and meticulously organising every celebration aspect is undeniably hard work. Historically, these responsibilities were seen as ‘women’s work,’ leading to the widespread assumption that women would bear the full weight of these tasks. Although cultural norms have evolved somewhat, the disproportionate burden still falls on women in many households. Australian women, in particular, frequently juggle multiple responsibilities – from working to raising children and managing a single or joint household and the holiday season compounds their daily workload. There is an underlying assumption that they are not only capable of handling it all but that they are expected to get it all done, as this has been the tradition for many years. Tasks such as meal preparation, finding recipes everyone will enjoy, picking up gifts, placing online orders online, coordinating family members and organising dates and times all contribute to the significant administrative workload at Christmas.

Do you have a routine that helps you unwind? What is a nighttime ritual that allows you to switch off?

The wind-down ritual is so important to me. It starts by getting into (comfortable) sleepwear as soon as dinner is done and dusted. I’ll watch TV or look at my phone — I’m only human! About 45 minutes out from bedtime, I’ll cleanse my face, brush my teeth and head to bed to read. Even if I only get five minutes of reading in, it’s enough to switch off my brain for sleep.

What are you currently reading, watching, or listening to before bed?

I’m reading Kylie Ladd’s new novel, I’ll Leave You With This. I’m a part of an online book club, and it’s this month’s pick.

Do you use any tricks to help you nod off?

I need a cool room (hello, menopause), so up until recently, this meant cranking the aircon to fridge-like conditions. I don’t generally have trouble falling asleep as long as

I’ve quieted my mind with reading.

What was your favourite bedtime story as a child?

Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (not a very calming and comforting book in hindsight!)

What’s a bad sleep habit you would like to change?

My worst sleep habit — or one that disrupts my ritual — is getting stuck in the groove of a TV show and clicking “next episode” instead of heading to bed at my usual time.

THE WAKE-UP

Do you hit snooze or bounce out of bed?

Neither. When the alarm goes off during the week, I’m up on autopilot, knowing that if I paused to think about it, I’d stay in bed.

If you could wake up to one song every morning, what would it be?

My alarm is actually bird sounds, and that’s a pretty slow and soothing way to wake up.

What’s on your bedside table?

My Kindle, a candle, lip balm, moisturiser, crystals and a phone/watch charger.

What is your favourite breakfast to boost your morning?

Coffee, of course, but then a protein smoothie with banana, chocolate protein powder, collagen, nut butter and cinnamon.

What’s your 5-9 routine?

I move my body in some way every weekday morning (weekends are ideally a bit slower). It may be a walk with a girlfriend or an at-home yoga or pilates class.

When buying sleepwear, what colours do you find most calming and comforting?

I prefer calming, muted colours and prints that help slow down the mind ahead of sleeping — or even for relaxing at home.

How can women ensure they care for themselves while attending to others’ happiness during this season?

I think it’s important to take stock and reflect on what you enjoy doing at Christmas time and what tasks can be delegated or shared amongst other people in the household or extended family. Some people and partners objectively have no idea how much time and energy goes into this season, so sitting down, having a conversation and writing down tasks can be eye-opening. I also encourage assertive communication, in which a month before planning starts, you say to others, ‘ I will need help with this year’s celebrations; what are some tasks you can do to contribute?’.

What are the emotional and psychological effects of bearing this additional holiday burden, and how does it impact women’s overall well-being?

The emotional and psychological effects of the holiday burden are significant. Emotionally, women can feel stressed, overwhelmed, exhausted, resentful, angry, and like they are taken for granted. Psychologically, the impacts can mean sleep and concentration are impacted, it can trigger existing or new mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, and burnout can often occur- leaving women unable to enjoy this period as much as others in their households.

Are there specific self-care practices or mental health tips to help women prioritise their well-being amidst the holiday chaos?

Self-care is critical to getting through this period! Ensure you’re prioritising regular sleep, movement, time with friends and a flexible mindset about the ‘perfect Christmas’ not existing. Delegate what can be delegated and remind yourself why you and your loved ones enjoy this period. It’s likely about quality time together and good conversations. Use this to guide where you put your time and energy.

How can women reclaim the holiday season for themselves, allowing it to be a time of joy and fulfilment rather than overwhelming obligations?

Do away with doing things just because they ‘should’ be done, and move towards things that will bring you genuine joy. Make time to see your friends and have new experiences and know that Christmas does not have to look the same for everyone. Every year, you can experiment and make this something truly enjoyable and (almost) painless.

In the spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility, how can couples or families work together to reduce the mental load and create a more balanced holiday season?

Even the planning phase is still informally assigned to women. Encouraging ideas from other family members so the planning still doesn’t fall disproportionately on women is important.

What are some practical ways to set boundaries and establish realistic expectations to achieve a more meaningful and enjoyable holiday experience?

Understanding your family values is vital to understanding what boundaries you can establish. If you think about your favourite Christmas that you and your family have spent together that made them enjoyable and memorable? Was it a fun day at the beach together? Was it talking and laughing all afternoon? Was it volunteering over the Christmas period

and sharing a new experience?

Once you understand what values you and your family hold, you can think about establishing time boundaries. For example, how much time would you like to spend on the road this year versus how much quality time you would like to spend with people? How much time would you like to spend at work over this period versus relaxing and resting?

With money, how much money do you have in your budget this year? How much would you like to spend on experiences that can be shared and enjoyed together, making memories?

When your boundaries are firm and communicated and understood by others, you’ll be able to hold yourself and others accountable, and they’ll be able to do the same.

How should we effectively communicate our needs and boundaries with family members to create a more balanced and enjoyable holiday experience?

Start these conversations early, and be honest. Use ‘I’ statements, focusing on the impact and the feelings so people understand where you’re coming from. Something like, “In previous years, I’ve noticed I felt so rundown. I’ve been running around after work or looking after the kids, and I felt like I’ve had no time to stop and enjoy Christmas, and then, by the time it has passed, I’m so exhausted while everyone else seems to be having a good time. I’d like a lot more help this year because it could help us all have a great time together, and it would be a huge help to me.’

If we see a friend or family member struggling under the pressure of the season or having a stressful time in general, how can we approach them and support them?

Offer to talk to them on the phone, go for a walk, or have a coffee together. The Christmas period can be so frantic, and we can quickly fall into mindless habits out of obligation and a sense of guilt. Be open and honest with your friends, share if and when you have been worried about them in this way before and also note what you’re observing in them. Remind them that no Christmas can ever be ‘perfect’, and if some things don’t go how they wanted, another Christmas will come around.

Ask them what they would do if they could design their own Christmas and offer them practical support if they are struggling. Encourage them to delegate and communicate to members of the household and extended families to share the load.

About Carly Dober

Carly is a psychologist with a particular interest in the issues that affect the mental health and emotional wellbeing of women. She is a Director at the Australian Association of Psychologists Incorporated (AAPi).

Ahead of Mother’s Day, we are honoured to announce the release of our limited-edition sleepwear collection in support of Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA).

We had the pleasure of sitting down with friends Janine and Zoe, who shared how breast cancer has impacted their experience of motherhood.

Through their poignant stories, they also celebrate the enduring influence their own mothers have had on their life and style.

Mother of three, Agricultural Financial Administrator, committee member of Grow Myrtleford

Janine

Mother of three, Agricultural Financial Administrator, committee member of Grow Myrtleford

What is the most stylish advice your mother has passed on to you?

I remember being totally absorbed watching my mother put on makeup; she worked and modelled for Max Factor before having her own family. Mum took great care in how she looked and always looked like a superstar.

I'm sure she passed on loads of advice over the years, and I was no doubt selective of hearing at times. But I did take on board to own my style and be confident. And always, 'Stand up straight, with your shoulders back – and smile!'

What is the most significant life lesson your mother has taught you?

Always be true to yourself. Never give up your worth of who you are. Have confidence. "If you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will".

Did becoming a mother change your approach to style and fashion?

Absolutely. I went from trends to classic dressing – and thankfully never showed a midriff again.

What would be your ultimate Mother’s Day gift?

I look forward to the handmade card from my children with a cup of tea in bed.

How have you encouraged your daughters to develop and express their own sense of style?

My daughters have had a very strong sense of style from very early on with matching outfits and various accessories, even as toddlers. I couldn’t believe it! So, I find my job is providing soft guidelines and a pop of a compliment, so they’ll feel confident wherever they are.

Were there any unexpected silver linings from your breast cancer journey that have enriched your experience as a mother?

We all live incredibly busy lives; home, family and friends, work, school and the many children’s activities filling every moment of every day.

My diagnosis came at the beginning of COVID, so I went from running on all adrenals to having to sit in this sudden ‘pause’ in my life. This pause, even if through breast cancer and other external influences beyond my control, made me grateful to stop and completely reset in relative privacy.

I learnt to slow down, just ‘be’ with my family, and focus on my health and treatment through a very discombobulated global period.

On the other side, life is certainly busy again, but there’s a new clarity and appreciation to accompany it.

How have you managed to balance the demands of motherhood with the physical and emotional toll of breast cancer treatment? What advice would you give to other mothers navigating a breast cancer diagnosis while raising children?

There is a huge mental and physical adjustment throughout the treatment journey that consists of many varying stages.

It takes time to recognise and realise what you’re about to go through — the information-gathering stage if you like.

Once you have the information for your cancer and treatment, you begin to acknowledge where you are at, then you come to the acceptance, trusting the process, that this is beyond your control and you have to walk bravely through it to get to the other side.

The sooner you can get to this point, the sooner you can tune in to be more present again with your children and those around you.

I am reticent to give too much advice as the cancer journey is entirely personal for everyone, where no ‘one’ person can provide you with advice as to what it will be like for you and how it will impact those around you. And unfortunately, plenty of people have been through it.

I just tried to maintain as much normality for both my children and me, which meant that, among other things, I still dressed for confidence each day, with my shoulders back and a smile!

Zoe

Mum of two and Interior Designer @by_zoe_murphy

What lessons did you inherit from your mum as a result of her cancer journey?

I learnt to take care of myself mentally and physically. Mum was diagnosed in her early forties — and the treatments were not nearly as successful or effective then.

She struggled with the treatment that continued for over 11 years, and it knocked her around a lot. I also lost my dad to cancer, so I need to be mindful. My wisdom now is: prevention is better than cure.

Today, I live a healthy, clean life. I cut out alcohol years ago and started practising yoga instead of drinking to manage my stress. My kids see that we don’t drink alcohol at all, and they don’t feel the need to later in life. I’m teaching them meditation, and because I’m always present, they know they can come to me with any worries; we talk about everything!

How would you describe your mother’s style? How did her style influence your own?

Mum was a fashion designer and worked for Prue Acton.

Her style was very experimental, and she made most of her clothes, including her first wedding dress, which is archived at the National Gallery of Victoria.

It’s constructed from patches of denim she had left over, sewn together with other pieces of fabric she had collected and embellished with pearls and buttons. It’s very eclectic and very ‘70s. Growing up, I experimented with many different styles, even trying to create my clothes from scratch, just like her.

What is the most stylish advice your mother passed on to you?

Mum told me to look after clothes, always follow the washing instructions, and steam and dry clean when possible as they will last longer. I still do this today, and everything in my wardrobe looks brand new!

What is the most significant life lesson your mother taught you?

She taught me to work hard and be true to myself. If someone doesn’t like you, move on and give your time to those who appreciate you. Life is too short.

Did becoming a mother change your approach to style and fashion?

Yes, it did. After I carried my two children, my feet changed, and I could no longer run around in high heels and short skirts!

My go-to when I’m not at work is a matching tracksuit set. I like investing in nice sunnies to hide my tired eyes and get away with no makeup and a good pair of comfortable and cool-looking sneakers!

And a good bumbag to run after the kids with; always have two hands free!

What would you love for Mother’s Day?

A sleep-in and lots of cuddles!

Is there any style advice you have passed down to your daughter that you learned from your mother or other influential women in your life?

I taught her how to put an outfit together mainly by colour tones. I always tell her to refrain from copying what the girls at school are wearing, to dress as an individual and feel comfortable in what she chooses to wear. Unfortunately, that is pants. I had to donate all the dresses I bought her.

Join us in supporting women affected by breast cancer this Mother’s Day by purchasing a pair of our limited BCNA sleepwear.

When we partnered with Cotton Australia, we wanted to get to know the people behind the fabric. Brooke Summers is as passionate about Australian Cotton as the farmers who grow it. Here, she shares why it is regarded amongst the highest quality in the world, why traceability is becoming increasingly significant in fashion supply chains and how our local cotton production is becoming even more sustainable.

As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month we are joining forces with our charity partner, Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), to raise awareness, inspire hope, and celebrate resilience.

Throughout October, we will unite to amplify the personal stories BCNA are sharing of those affected by breast cancer and its powerful theme for Breast Cancer Awareness month, which is “Living well, Your Way”.

One story that profoundly touched us this year was that of Julia Alberico, a dedicated hairdresser and proud BCNA member.

With warmth and vulnerability, Julia shared how her breast cancer journey led to a profound shift in her self-image and style. Her experience was a catalyst, inspiring her to embrace a fresh perspective on both her wellness and her wardrobe.

In the spirit of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Julia’s story serves as a poignant reminder that we should dress for any moment, because every moment deserves to be cherished and celebrated.

Hairdresser and Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) member, Julia Alberico, shines a new light on her wardrobe after breast cancer.

In the past, colour-coordinating my gym bag with my workout attire was my way of adding fashionable flair.

After being diagnosed with breast cancer, I started matching my hospital bag to my outfit instead. But it wasn’t about making a style statement anymore; I was trying to reassure myself that I still had it all together.

Last year, after years of regular breast checks and biopsies, my doctor found a lump called a fibroadenoma and recommended we take it out. My breast tissue had always been quite dense, so I suggested having a breast reduction as part of the surgery — something I had thought about for a long time.

As a fitness enthusiast and weightlifter, I had always embraced my body, understanding my large breasts couldn’t be altered through exercise. Still, I longed to wear racerback singlets to the gym and tops that celebrated my cleavage instead of concealing it. I remember getting home from my reduction surgery and – despite being sore –eagerly trying on all these beautiful tops that I couldn’t previously wear. I even asked my partner to take a photo of me wearing one I’d always wanted to button up.

I hadn’t even had a chance to enjoy my new body when my surgeon rang me two days later. They had found a 2.5-centimetre tumour in my breast tissue. I was 36 years old, and within days went from having breast surgery to breast cancer surgery. It’s been really interesting for me because I was initially so excited about the confidence I would gain from my new breasts, only to have my entire body image shift.

One of the hardest things I have found is that your self-esteem can suffer after you finish treatment. There’s a misconception that after chemo and radiation, everything is fine, but in reality, you’re left on your own in a body you no longer trust. And, while there’s incredible support available for your mental and physical health — something I am so grateful to BCNA for — sometimes it’s simple things like knowing how to dress for your new body that you can struggle with the most. Cancer completely changed me and I didn’t know where to start. I just knew I didn’t want to wear clothes that would accentuate my flaws, because that’s exactly how I felt: flawed.

My hair still hasn’t grown back, I’ve gained weight, and in my case daily hormone treatments also mean I don’t have collagen in my skin, so it appears wrinklier.

But in seeing my body in this new light, I am trying to positively work with what I’ve got.

I always had an hourglass figure, so I would choose clothes cinched in at the stomach to highlight my small waist. Now instead of pinning my waist, I look for silhouettes that flow from under the bust and don’t cling to my body. I’ve also tried to incorporate more colours and prints into my wardrobe because, in a way, you feel stripped back of everything. In my case, I don’t have any oestrogen, so I feel like I’m robbed of my youth, and I find that injecting bright, fun and playful pieces into my outfit can boost my mood.

Scarves and necklaces have become another way of adding a pop of colour, but also soften my appearance and make me feel empowered. As a hairdresser, I chose not to wear a wig because I didn’t want to hide my journey; I wanted people to recognise what I was going through.

Above all, what I’ve learnt on this journey is that we never truly know what another woman is experiencing. So, when you see someone wearing a nice top, take a moment to compliment and ask where they found it. These seemingly small acts of kindness can be a powerful source of encouragement, igniting confidence, and uplifting spirits in ways we may never know.

Finally, I’ve discovered that some days you just have to get dressed, because putting on a beautiful dress can instantly make you feel more confident to embrace life. But also, on the days when the weight of it all feels too heavy, request that your friends visit you wearing their PJs, too. No expectations, no judgement — just a reminder that you are not alone in your journey.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting Australian women. For 18 years, Sussan has been proudly supporting BCNA. Together with the support of our customers, we have raised more than $3 million for the organisation.

More ways to support and connect with BCNA

Shop the Pink for Good Edit

At Sussan, self-care starts with sleep, which is why we are engaging women in our community to share stories about their own relationship with sleep —from the rituals that help them unwind at night to the routines that boost their mornings.

Nikki Parkinson the founder of Styling You is on a mission to empower busy women to conquer their day with confidence, but this content creator and bedtime enthusiast is equally dedicated to finding solace in the comfort of home. We sat down with Nikki to discuss all things style, self-care, and the importance of a good night’s sleep.

THE WIND-DOWN

How are you sleeping? What is your relationship like with sleep?

I love my sleep and can’t get enough of it. My biggest sleep challenge over the past decade has been dealing with hormonal changes that come with peri-menopause and menopause. Thankfully, I’m over the other side, post-menopause, and, with the guidance of my GP, have the right balance of hormones to ensure a good night’s sleep.

Do you have a routine that helps you unwind? What is a nighttime ritual that allows you to switch off?

The wind-down ritual is so important to me. It starts by getting into (comfortable) sleepwear as soon as dinner is done and dusted. I’ll watch TV or look at my phone — I’m only human! About 45 minutes out from bedtime, I’ll cleanse my face, brush my teeth and head to bed to read. Even if I only get five minutes of reading in, it’s enough to switch off my brain for sleep.

What are you currently reading, watching, or listening to before bed?

I’m reading Kylie Ladd’s new novel, I’ll Leave You With This. I’m a part of an online book club, and it’s this month’s pick.

Do you use any tricks to help you nod off?

I need a cool room (hello, menopause), so up until recently, this meant cranking the aircon to fridge-like conditions. I don’t generally have trouble falling asleep as long as

I’ve quieted my mind with reading.

What was your favourite bedtime story as a child?

Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (not a very calming and comforting book in hindsight!)

What’s a bad sleep habit you would like to change?

My worst sleep habit — or one that disrupts my ritual — is getting stuck in the groove of a TV show and clicking “next episode” instead of heading to bed at my usual time.

THE WAKE-UP

Do you hit snooze or bounce out of bed?

Neither. When the alarm goes off during the week, I’m up on autopilot, knowing that if I paused to think about it, I’d stay in bed.

If you could wake up to one song every morning, what would it be?

My alarm is actually bird sounds, and that’s a pretty slow and soothing way to wake up.

What’s on your bedside table?

My Kindle, a candle, lip balm, moisturiser, crystals and a phone/watch charger.

What is your favourite breakfast to boost your morning?

Coffee, of course, but then a protein smoothie with banana, chocolate protein powder, collagen, nut butter and cinnamon.

What’s your 5-9 routine?

I move my body in some way every weekday morning (weekends are ideally a bit slower). It may be a walk with a girlfriend or an at-home yoga or pilates class.

When buying sleepwear, what colours do you find most calming and comforting?

I prefer calming, muted colours and prints that help slow down the mind ahead of sleeping — or even for relaxing at home.

Jessica Phillips

We chatted with our Sussan Marketing specialist about what helps her wind down for restful ZZZs and wake up on the bright side. From books and candles to calming yoga and bold sleepwear, Jess shares her bedtime upgrades to support self-care.

THE WIND-DOWN

How are you sleeping? What is your relationship like with sleep?

Generally good! It can be tricky to wind down during busy periods of life and work, and I have had periods of poor sleep on and off.

Do you have a routine that helps you unwind? What is a nighttime ritual that allows you to switch off?

Sticking to my Yoga routine helps with my sleep & mental health as much as my physical health. Yoga is usually straight after work, and then I come home to cook myself dinner and wind down.

I’m also trying to pick up my book each night and read before bed to help my mind slow down. A candle and cup of tea and a cosy dressing gown are non-negotiables.

What are you currently reading, watching or listening to before bed?

I have a few books on my bedside at the moment! Really, Good Actually is my current read, and Very Nice Girl is next on the list.

Do you use any tricks to help you nod off?

Not really. Some nights are harder than others!

What was your favourite bedtime story as a child?

From a young age, the Harry Potter series was a winner.

What’s a bad sleep habit you would like to change?

Phone in the bedroom and social media before bed (whoops).

THE WAKE-UP

Do you hit snooze or bounce out of bed?

It can be either, depending on the day, but most likely hitting snooze.

If you could wake up to one song every morning, what would it be?

Not sure about waking up, but I love blasting my favourite pop tunes in the car on my way to work — always gets me in a good mood.

What’s on your bedside table?

My favourite plant, a candle, books and chocolate.

What is your favourite breakfast to boost your morning?

Lately, hot cross buns!

What’s your 5-9 routine?

I always start with a cup of tea to help me prepare for the day. I head off to work with the Dream Team at Sussan, beginning with a coffee and morning catch-up!

What do you look for when buying new sleepwear?

I love a playful print for bedtime; have some fun with it.