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.
This month, we caught up with our Buying Assistant, Sydnie. Working behind the scenes to bring each collection to life, she shares how creativity, collaboration and an understanding of our customer shape the pieces we create.
Tell us about your role at Sussan—how does it contribute to Sussan’s story, and what does an average workday look like for you?
My role as a buying assistant for Sussan supports the wovens category, which includes jackets, pants, shorts and all denim pieces. I work closely with our Wovens Buyer, Lisa, assisting with admin and product development.
My day-to-day responsibilities include communicating with suppliers, ensuring processes run smoothly and overseeing the development of our products, as well as assisting with research and design for upcoming collections. I also regularly attend fit sessions and range planning meetings where I contribute to both the design and development of new product.
What's something about your role that would surprise people?
For me, no day at work is ever the same. One day could be in the office working on research or product development, another could be visiting our stores to check the product, or I could be in the studio helping with a photoshoot.
I have to be very flexible and agile as things can change quickly in our business. This keeps my days interesting and fun.
Tell us about your role at Sussan—how does it contribute to Sussan’s story, and what does an average workday look like for you?
My role as a buying assistant for Sussan supports the wovens category, which includes jackets, pants, shorts and all denim pieces. I work closely with our Wovens Buyer, Lisa, assisting with admin and product development.
My day-to-day responsibilities include communicating with suppliers, ensuring processes run smoothly and overseeing the development of our products, as well as assisting with research and design for upcoming collections. I also regularly attend fit sessions and range planning meetings where I contribute to both the design and development of new product.
What's something about your role that would surprise people?
For me, no day at work is ever the same. One day could be in the office working on research or product development, another could be visiting our stores to check the product, or I could be in the studio helping with a photoshoot.
I have to be very flexible and agile as things can change quickly in our business. This keeps my days interesting and fun.
“To me, 'For Women. By Women.' is about community. I work with a strong community of amazing women from diverse backgrounds who have lived experience of what it means to be a woman in Australia.”
What do you hope women feel when they step into a Sussan store or shop with us online?
I hope the people shopping at Sussan feel a sense of warmth and light when stepping into our stores. In a market of beige and neutral, I hope our customer enjoys a break from that and embrace the fun colours and prints Sussan always has to offer.
What does 'For Women. By Women.' mean to you in the context of your work?
To me, 'For Women. By Women.' is about community. I work with a strong community of amazing women from diverse backgrounds who have lived experience of what it means to be a woman in Australia. This understanding really helps to inform our design choices and is reflected through our brand and product.
How has working at Sussan shaped your style or approach to getting dressed?
Since working at Sussan, I would say my style has become more refined yet versatile, learning to use everyday pieces in new ways. I have also expanded my colour palette, trying to incorporate more pops of colour into my wardrobe.
This month, our campaign is New Light. What are you looking forward to this season, and how are you looking on the bright side of winter?
I love winter dressing, so this season I'm really looking forward to layering with coats and bright accessories!
To stay on the bright side of winter, I think it's important to stay social, even when the weather can be discouraging. I love going out for dinners with friends or going to cosy wine bars. Anywhere with a toasty fire is always a win!
If you could tell the woman wearing Sussan one thing, what would it be?
Our product is designed with you in mind every step of the way. We know life gets busy and stressful, and we understand the importance of making your life easier by eliminating the stress of finding a good outfit with our elevated, considered everyday pieces.
How has working at Sussan shaped your style or approach to getting dressed?
Working for Sussan has really changed the way I think about my clothes—what they’re made from, where they come from, and their impact on the environment. It’s taught me the value of sustainable fibres and encouraged me to make small, more conscious changes to my wardrobe, like choosing Australian cotton and traceable linens.
This month, our campaign Here & Now is all about slowing down and being present. What’s something small in your day that helps you pause and enjoy the moment?
I’ve recently made an effort to do something small for myself before work, whether it’s grabbing a coffee with my husband, going to Pilates, or taking a walk at sunrise. It gives me a moment to reset before the day begins, helping me stay present, slow down, and prioritise time for myself.
Which piece from the new collection would you reach for if you wanted to feel more grounded and present in your day?
I’d be reaching for the Australian Cotton Poplin Shirt, it’s comfortable and easy to layer going into these cooler months.
If you could tell the woman wearing Sussan one thing, what would it be?
That I hope our pieces bring her as much joy as they brought us creating them. Seeing Sussan out in the world always makes me smile.
How has working at Sussan shaped your style or approach to getting dressed?
Working for Sussan has really changed the way I think about my clothes—what they’re made from, where they come from, and their impact on the environment. It’s taught me the value of sustainable fibres and encouraged me to make small, more conscious changes to my wardrobe, like choosing Australian cotton and traceable linens.
This month, our campaign Here & Now is all about slowing down and being present. What’s something small in your day that helps you pause and enjoy the moment?
I’ve recently made an effort to do something small for myself before work, whether it’s grabbing a coffee with my husband, going to Pilates, or taking a walk at sunrise. It gives me a moment to reset before the day begins, helping me stay present, slow down, and prioritise time for myself.
Which piece from the new collection would you reach for if you wanted to feel more grounded and present in your day?
I’d be reaching for the Australian Cotton Poplin Shirt, it’s comfortable and easy to layer going into these cooler months.
If you could tell the woman wearing Sussan one thing, what would it be?
That I hope our pieces bring her as much joy as they brought us creating them. Seeing Sussan out in the world always makes me smile.
