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.

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.

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.

Meet Noura, our Visual Merchandising Coordinator, whose eye for detail transforms our collections into inspiring in-store moments. From curating window displays to crafting a seamless shopping experience, she brings Sussan’s vision to life. We caught up with her to talk creativity, career lessons, and the art of balancing style with comfort.

What have been your biggest learnings in your role?

In my role, the most important thing I’ve learned is ensuring our creative ideas for each campaign continue to feel fresh and relevant.

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

Be true to yourself, and the rest will follow.

How do you unwind at the end of the workday?

I unwind by going to reformer Pilates, cooking fresh meals for the week and enjoying a bit of screen time before bed.

Who are the women you are inspired by?

Many incredible women inspire me, from my mum — an incredibly strong, passionate woman — to my friends, who are go-getters and strong-minded women supporting and pushing each other to do our best, to the people I work with every day. I’m very lucky to have such amazing women around me.

This month, our campaign is Living in Balance: What does “Living in Balance” mean to you, and how do you see that reflected in your style?

For me, it means comfort but with a twist of style and finding outfits that enhance our inner and outer energy.

How do you balance work and home life?

Having a work/life balance is about ensuring I have an efficient working day so I can get home and unwind. Setting clear boundaries and making sure I leave on time also.

How do you balance style and comfort in your wardrobe? Do you have a go-to outfit that makes balancing your day feel easier?

I ensure I’m always comfortable in every outfit; otherwise, it affects my entire balance of the day, so I have some go-to fits. I usually lean towards either dress pants or loose slouchy jeans with a fashion top, kitten heels and an oversized jacket and tend to swap out heels for sneakers depending on the day and vibe.

What is one thing you do to bring balance to your day?

I need an hour or so to work in silence at my desk. I usually pop in some headphones to smash through my workload, which helps me feel super productive.

At home, I need to have a clean house each night before bed, which helps me bring balance to the following morning so that I can start my day right.

At Sussan, every design has its own a story, and Charlotte knows the detail behind each one. As part of our Quality Assurance team, she's the quiet force ensuring that every fabric, fit and finish meets the highest standard before it reaches your wardrobe.

From live model fittings to fibre traceability, her days are full of detail and dedication. In this edition of For Women. By Women., Charlotte shares what it means to craft clothing that feels as good as it looks—and why confidence begins with care.

What's something about your role that would surprise people?

I think the amount of testing we do on every style that comes through the office would surprise people. Each style is tested about 12 times, on average, to check the performance of both the fabric and fit before being made into the finished garment. The QA team requests and reviews all this testing to ensure it meets Sussan's quality standards.

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

I hope women feel it is an easy shopping experience, not high stress or unpleasant. I have experienced many shopping outings where I have come away feeling overwhelmed and deflated, putting me off returning to those stores. As the QA team, we work hard to ensure the fit of our garments is to a high standard so the shopping experience is more enjoyable.

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

I love the phrase 'For women. By women' and feel it gives me confidence knowing the product we craft is thought out thoroughly by the people who will also wear the product. There is something special about working with a community of women to help make the best product we can for our fellow women.

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

To treat people with kindness. My mum has always told me to "treat people the way you want to be treated". A little bit of kindness goes a long way; you never know what other people are going through, and one kind comment could make someone's day.

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

One thing I have noticed since moving to Melbourne from New Zealand is how much black people wear. I have always loved to dress in colour and prints, and Sussan has helped me continue including colour and print in my wardrobe while living in Melbourne.

What's a small ritual or reset that helps you unwind at the end of the day?

When I finish work, I often like to go for a walk along the Yarra River while listening to a podcast. I am very passionate about food and cooking, so I love to go home and cook a yummy meal to sit down with my housemates and chat about our days. I also love to read a few chapters of my book before bed to help me switch it off for the day. I am currently reading the Harry Potter books for the first time.

This month, our campaign is titled "The Journey Forward." What does "The Journey Forward" mean to you, and how do you see your work supporting this journey for Australian women?

For me, the campaign "The Journey Forward" relates to my work as a QA technician through sustainability and the future of fashion. We can make a difference in the fashion industry by using more responsible fibres and fabrications with reduced environmental impact, prioritising garment quality, reducing sampling, creating thoughtful care instructions for better garment care, and educating our customers about a garment's end-of-life choices. We are helping educate Australian women on these processes and how they contribute to reducing environmental impact. 

How does quality assurance play a role in helping women feel confident as they move through their day?

The fit of clothing plays a huge role in whether we feel confident in our outfits. I am constantly working on the fit of our clothes to ensure every woman who buys a Sussan product will feel confident in our clothes. We fit on a live model with every sample we receive to check functionality and ease of wear and fit on a mannequin to ensure the best fit for our customers.

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

One thing I would love to tell our customers is that we are all passionate about our product and who buys it at its final outcome. The QA team works on the product from when the buyers brief us on the style to when it goes into the store. We love seeing our clothes out and about on our wonderful Sussan customers and that all our hard work has paid off.

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 more than 85 years, we’ve been by your side, dressing you through life’s many chapters. But style is just one part of our story. This International Women’s Day, we wanted to do more than dress you—we wanted to truly hear you.

That’s why we created The Story of Us survey: to understand the complexities shaping the lives of Australian women today. More than 16,000 of you generously shared your experiences—your challenges, triumphs, and truths.

We asked for your voices not just to listen but to learn—so we can better support, advocate for, and celebrate women in meaningful ways.

Ahead of International Women’s Day, and in the spirit of this year’s IWD theme, For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment, we’re shining a light on your stories.

The Top Challenges Facing Women Today

Women across Australia are juggling more than ever — from careers and families to an ever-evolving sense of self. When asked about the biggest challenges facing Australian women today, the cost of living emerged as the most significant concern, with 29% of respondents naming it their top challenge. Mental health followed closely behind, with 22%, while another 22% pointed to domestic violence as a persistent and pressing issue. Access to healthcare and gender inequality also featured prominently, suggesting that, despite social progress, structural barriers remain.

The Mental Load: A Silent Weight

The survey also shed light on the invisible burdens many women carry at home. A staggering 68% reported shouldering the majority of their household’s mental load, with 44% admitting this responsibility negatively impacts their mental health. Additionally, only 36% of women feel appreciated for the invisible work they do at home, with 27% feeling entirely unappreciated.

Juggling careers and families has left many women feeling stretched thin. Two-thirds of respondents spend less than three hours per week prioritising themselves, a stark reminder of how self-care is sacrificed under the weight of daily responsibilities.

Everyday Safety Concerns

The survey revealed deeply concerning insights about safety and security. More than half — 54% — of respondents said they do not feel safe walking alone in their neighbourhoods at night. Workplace inequality remains another area of concern, with 71% of participants stating they believe women do not have equal opportunities to men in the workplace. These findings reflect the broader societal challenges that impact women’s sense of security, our opportunities to thrive, and a collective desire for safer, more inclusive public spaces.

Women’s Health Deserves Better

73% of women surveyed don’t always feel adequately supported by healthcare providers, with 36% navigating perimenopause or menopause—stages of life that bring their own challenges, often without the care they need. This gap in understanding underscores the urgent need for better-informed healthcare practices and resources tailored to women’s evolving needs. Even in 2025, women are still fighting to have their health taken seriously.

A Crisis of Confidence

When asked why, 24% said the natural changes in their bodies had impacted how they feel about themselves, 15% pointed to body image struggles, and 15% cited family responsibilities. Financial stress and mental health challenges also emerged as significant factors, each affecting 11% of respondents. These findings reveal the deeply personal and multifaceted nature of confidence — a reflection of the shifting demands women face every day.

The Power of Personal Style

Despite these challenges, fashion remains a source of empowerment for many. Half of the participants described clothing as a confidence booster, with 33% seeing it as a form of self-expression. Comfort has become a dominant wardrobe consideration, with 62% of respondents saying they now prioritise it more than ever.

Our Style Habits

So, how do Australian women engage with fashion today? For 46% of women, it involves a hybrid shopping experience that blends in-store discovery with online convenience. Another 49% remain loyal to traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Inspiration, however, is overwhelmingly digital: 43% of women look to online retailers for wardrobe ideas. When it comes to spending, 39% set aside between $50 and $100 each month for their wardrobe, while 32% invest between $100 and $200 in style.

Sustainable Style: A Growing Focus

Sustainability is increasingly on women’s minds, with 80% of women considering the environmental impact when purchasing. This conscious approach extends to wardrobe clear-outs, with 82% choosing to donate unwanted items to charity, 12% passing pieces on to family or friends and a small number opting to recycle them through programs like Sussan’s Upparel partnership. These habits reflect a growing awareness of fashion’s lifecycle—and the desire to make more thoughtful, responsible choices.

What Brings Us Joy

Amid life’s demands, many women find joy in simple moments. When asked what brings them the most happiness, 41% pointed to time with loved ones, while 39% said it’s the small everyday pleasures—like a morning coffee or a peaceful walk—that lift their spirits. These results highlight the importance of slowing down, savouring the little things, and prioritising meaningful connections.

Advice Across Generations

When survey participants were asked for words of wisdom, women of all ages echoed a common message: “Be yourself.” Phrases like “Love yourself,” “Believe in yourself,” and “Be kind to yourself” were among the most frequently shared advice they’d offer their younger selves.

This enduring theme of self-acceptance highlights the lifelong journey of confidence and identity, reminding us that while external circumstances shift, the most enduring lessons remain: self-belief, self-compassion and staying true to who you are.

Shaping the Conversation for the Future

The realities shared in The Story of Us survey are deeply important, and we don’t take them lightly. These findings go beyond statistics—they are real experiences, real challenges, and real moments of resilience. By sharing them, we aim to amplify the voices of Australian women and bring attention to the issues that matter to them most.

But listening is just the first step. We’re committed to turning these insights into action—whether through the initiatives we invest in, the causes we support, or how we design our products to better serve women at every stage of life. There’s always more to do, and we welcome these conversations as part of our ongoing commitment to advocating for and supporting the well-being of women today and into the future.

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.

Here, we catch up with Sarah, one of our talented sleepwear buying assistants, to uncover how creativity, connection, and care for the little details bring comfort to sleep. From managing fit sessions to styling advertising samples, her role blends fashion and function — ensuring every sleep set feels as good as it looks.

What have been your biggest learnings in your role?

That you never stop learning. After I graduated from university, I thought I was done learning, but it was just the beginning; I learn at least one new thing every day I come to work.

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

“Slow down to speed up” I always try to do everything at once at a fast pace, but slowing down to speed up has helped me be able to stay more on track with daily tasks both at home and at work, as well as keep more organised and get more done throughout the day.

How do you balance work and home life?

I balance my work and home life by making sure I switch off after the day; I aim to stay on top of my work and keep organised throughout the day so once it’s home time, I can log off for the day and feel satisfied that every task is done.

How do you unwind at the end of the workday?

I go to the gym for a run or walk my dog, Buddy. I also have a nice dinner and finish the day by reading a book before bed.

Who are the women you are inspired by?

My sisters are my biggest inspirations. Being the youngest by 7 years, they act more like mums — they are constantly supporting me in everything I do and are always the first people I go to for anything. My Nan was also a big inspiration to me. She was a very creative woman and loved all things fashion. Working in the industry and having such a love for fashion makes me feel like there is always a part of her with me.

This month, our campaign is Days of Serenity. How will you embrace a slow start to the year this summer?

Trying to have more ‘me time’ is a focus this year. I want to try and slow down and take each day as it comes.

Is there a small ritual or habit you want to incorporate into your everyday life this year?

I plan to journal at least once a week to keep my head clear and calm, even at the busiest times of the year!

What’s your go-to outfit for a relaxed, serene summer day?

My go-to relaxation outfit is a pair of linen pants and a casual top or my favourite pyjamas, especially for lounging around. I am currently loving our Ditsy shortie set, which is perfect for a hot day as it’s made from our lightweight Ecovero fabrication.

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 spoke to Emilia, a talented member of our buying team. From the buzz of fitting sessions to the joy of seeing her designs out in the world, her passion for empowering women through style is woven into every piece she creates.

Read on to discover how she balances creativity, collaboration and a heartfelt philosophy to deliver collections that inspire confidence and connection every day.

What have been your biggest learnings in your role?

No great success was ever achieved without failure. Having been in this role for just over a year, I’ve come to realise that success is a continuous process of learning and evolving. One of the most valuable insights has been the importance of truly understanding our customer and what she needs from us. This is why feedback is so crucial—it helps us deliver the right product and ensures we are always improving to meet her expectations.

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

“It’s not about the destination; it’s about the journey.” This has recently come up quite a few times, reminding me to slow down and enjoy the process. I feel like we are always chasing what is next instead of taking a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come. It’s important to enjoy the ride, as life moves so quickly.

How do you balance work and home life?

Balancing work and home life requires setting clear boundaries and staying organised. I focus on being efficient at work so I can fully enjoy my time at home, whether it’s with family or relaxing. It’s about managing my time well and being present in each moment.

How do you unwind at the end of the workday?

At the end of the day, I unwind by taking a long walk with my dog, Hugo. It’s a nice way to clear my mind. Once we’re back, I’m usually quite hungry, so I find comfort in cooking a delicious meal. Cooking brings me a lot of joy, and I often enjoy a glass of wine while I do, making the experience all the more relaxing.

Who are the women you are inspired by?

My mum is one of my biggest inspirations. She’s caring, creative, and passionate. Having started her career as a graphic designer for an iconic Australian brand, I feel like I’m following in her footsteps. My sister is another major inspiration. We talk daily, supporting each other in pursuing our dreams, big or small. Alongside these incredible women in my family, I’m also fortunate to be surrounded by strong, influential women at work who inspire me to continually strive for more.

This month, our campaign is Heart to Heart: How do you try to create meaningful moments with loved ones amidst the festive chaos?

For me, it’s about reaching out and prioritising quality time. I believe it’s essential to dedicate time, even if it’s just a quick phone call to check-in. Those small moments of connection go a long way, especially during the busy holiday season.

What will you be gifting the special women on your list this year? And what is on your wish list?

Currently, Sussan’s has a partnership with Endota, so a voucher here is the perfect gift for the busy women in my life. Honestly, I might even treat myself to one of these as well – everyone deserves some time to relax and unwind.

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.

Meet Penny, our Marketing and Production Coordinator. With a keen eye for styling and a passion for storytelling, she showcases each collection in ways that inspire our customers to see their wardrobe in a new light.

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

“Trust yourself and be your number one fan”. It sounds simple, but it really stuck with me. As women, we can sometimes second-guess ourselves or shrink back in certain situations, whether it’s at work or in our personal lives. This advice reminded me that it’s okay to own my voice, my ideas, and my place in any room.

How do you balance work and home life?

Being a new mum of a 14-month-old, I find that work-life balance is the most important thing for my family and me right now. Luckily, I have an amazing manager who wants her team to succeed within their roles and genuinely cares about her team members. She supports us as much as possible to have the right work-life balance for our personal situation, which helps us excel within our roles and give the business our best selves. Having an approachable and caring manager makes such a difference in having a great work-life balance.

How do you unwind at the end of the workday?

Taking my dog to the dog park, getting fresh air and being surrounded by nature is my ultimate wind down.

Who are the women you are inspired by?

The amazing women I work with every day are definitely the ones that inspire me the most. I have really noticed how a great attitude and friendly face can help turn your day around and how working together for a common goal will always inspire you to do your best.

This month, our campaign is Embrace Your Magic. How do you personally connect with the idea of ’embracing your magic’ through fashion during the festive season?

For me, ’embracing my magic’ in the festive seasons is all about dressing for comfort with a festive flair! Cotton and linen fabrications in super fun reds are what I am channelling this year!

What elements and design features of this collection encourage women to feel more confident and vibrant?

I would say comfort and functionality are the main features of this collection that the design team focused on that will resonate with our customers.

What’s your go-to outfit when you want to feel bold and ready to celebrate?

If I want to feel bold, I wear colour. I am usually more of a black-and-white or neutral-toned girl. So, for a fun occasion and a bold look, I will add some colour to my outfit or even a fun floral.

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.

Meet Rachael, our Digital Manager and the creative force behind Sussan’s vibrant online presence.

Having moved from Chicago and now calling Melbourne home, Rachel juggles the busy life of a mum (and soon-to-be mum of two) while keeping our digital channels running smoothly.

Her passion for crafting effortless, engaging online experiences ensures you always discover our latest collections in a way that feels authentic and connected.

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

I’ve been fortunate to receive incredible advice from so many amazing women. One piece that stands out is something my mom has said: “Bloom where you’re planted.” So many of the chapters in my life haven’t gone exactly as I envisioned—like moving internationally, which took me far from family and friends, or the unexpected challenges I faced during my son’s birth. I think it can be natural to feel disappointed when things don’t turn out how you imagined, but letting go of those initial expectations and finding the beauty in the unexpected has taught me so much about resilience. Sometimes, those tough circumstances help you grow in ways you never anticipated.

How do you balance work and home life?

I’ve learned to take each day as it comes and focus on what’s in front of me. When I’m at work, I’m fully there, and when I’m at home, my family is my priority. Of course, there are times when the two overlap—like needing to log on after hours or picking up my son on a workday if he’s unwell. For me, the key to balancing it all is open, honest communication with my partner and colleagues. That way, we can all support each other, and I can make sure neither side starts to feel out of balance.

How do you unwind at the end of the workday?

Balancing a full-time job, pregnancy, and caring for a little one can make finding time to unwind and prioritise self-care challenging. I sometimes wrestle with feeling selfish for putting myself first, but one word that has really resonated with me this past year is ‘grace.’ I’ve been practising extending that grace not just to others but to myself as well. So, I make it a point to carve out small moments of self-care each day. This might mean taking a 20-minute walk with our dog in the morning, enjoying a bath in the evening, or simply setting aside 10 minutes to read or knit before bed. These little rituals help me recharge and maintain balance.

This month, our campaign is all about Life’s Chapters. In what ways has your style changed when navigating different life milestones?

New chapters in life often come with new circumstances and new people who can influence how your personal style fits within a different culture. Moving from Chicago to Melbourne was a significant shift for me—not just because of the weather but also the distinct fashion cultures. I’ll never forget attending my first work offsite here and discovering that a change of clothing for the evening was expected—a detail I hadn’t encountered before. That experience taught me the importance of always double-checking what’s considered appropriate for different settings, and it gave me a new appreciation for adapting my style to fit the culture around me while still being true to myself. It also broadened my appreciation for how fashion can reflect cultural nuances, enriching my approach to style and making me more adaptable and mindful in diverse environments.

As a mother, how has your personal style evolved to accommodate the demands of motherhood, including pregnancy?

Since becoming a mum, I’ve really come to value clothing that not only feels great but fits the pace of life we’re in right now. Whether through pregnancy, post-partum, going back to work, or chasing after a toddler on the weekends, I’ve learned that practicality is key. I still love discovering beautiful pieces for my wardrobe, but if I can’t wear them day-to-day, they end up as clutter that’s quickly out of style. Now, I find myself drawn to dresses and versatile separates that I can mix, match, and layer through all the seasons.

What role does your wardrobe play in helping you feel confident and ready to face new challenges or changes in your life?

There’s something truly empowering about a favourite piece of clothing that makes you feel ready to take on anything—those pieces that just fit well and look fantastic. I’m naturally more reserved, but when I need a confidence boost, especially when navigating the uncertainties of a new chapter, reaching for an outfit I love always gives me that extra assurance. It’s incredible how a well-chosen outfit can transform your mindset and help you face new challenges with greater self-assurance. I’ve found that certain pieces have become my go-to choices for pivotal moments, reminding me of my strength and ability to handle whatever comes my way.

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.

Meet Lisa, our talented Wovens Buyer. With a keen eye for trends and a passion for design, Lisa collaborates with our teams to create stylish, affordable pieces that fit seamlessly into the modern woman’s wardrobe.

From researching catwalk inspirations to liaising with international suppliers, Lisa’s day is filled with creativity and collaboration. Dedicated to empowering women, Lisa ensures every piece she designs is comfortable, stylish, and makes women feel confident.

You’ve been working on a new denim collection. Can you share some behind-the-scenes insights into creating a new range?

There has been a fundamental shift within the denim category, and you will begin to see this change in our upcoming collections.  We have just launched the SB Denim Blazer and Soft Denim Pant, a denim fabrication blended with a lyocell component. This set looks like true denim but is much softer, drapier, and more comfortable. While these two pieces are tailored designs and historically structured garments, they are now reinvigorated in this new fabrication creating an effortless, modern look. In the upcoming months, you will see many more of these new denim blends and 100% Lyocell pieces, which we think our customers will absolutely love!

What does ‘For Women. By Women.’ mean to you?

 I am so privileged to be surrounded by so many women of all ages in our head office to learn from and have as empowering female role models both professionally and personally.  In my day-to-day role, I incorporate ‘For Women, By Women’ when creating and fitting the product. I’m designing a collection keeping the female body in mind, considering all different ages and all body shapes and sizes. I also consistently wear-trial all the garments myself to ensure that they tick all the boxes, including comfort and style. My goal is to make every woman leaving our fitting rooms feel stylish, modern, and confident inside and out.

What have been your biggest learnings in your role?

My biggest learnings in my role come from our customers and their feedback. Sometimes, we don’t always get it right, and I think it’s extremely important to understand why and be open to honest criticism.

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

 ”We learn from failure, not from success”.  For me this quote is so reassuring to take risks in my role and try new product our customer will hopefully love (or not). If we don’t try new things and get uncomfortable, we will never evolve and learn from our mistakes.

How do you balance work and home life?

I think it’s very important to leave work at work and have it separate from your home life. I am trying to stay present after hours, focus on myself and do things that make me feel fulfilled and ready to handle the 9-5 daily work routine.

How do you unwind at the end of the workday?

Once 5:00 p.m. arrives, my laptop is shut down for the day, and I often head straight to The Tan Track for a relaxing walk to unwind. This is followed by therapeutically cooking dinner before heading to bed to watch some TV.

Who are the women you are inspired by?

I am inspired by the two closest females in my life: my mum and my older sister.  They have taught me to work hard, follow my passion and have shown me how to raise a family, be a great support system and have a career all at the same time!

This month, our campaign is all about harnessing our strength within. What are your favourite ways to boost your inner strength during particularly demanding periods?

My favourite way to boost my strength is through exercise and activities that ‘fill my cup’. When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I always ensure my exercise and meditation are my top priorities as this is the only thing that will get me through it—if you are not at your best, you will not put out your best work!