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.
How does your role contribute to the world of Sussan?
In my role, I contribute to the world of Sussan by designing and creating collections within the Dresses and Shirts categories. These pieces are key in providing stylish, comfortable, and versatile options for Australian women. By understanding the needs of our customers, I ensure the designs reflect both current trends and timeless appeal, making it easier for women to feel confident and stylish every day.
What does an average day look like in your role?
My day starts with a coffee while reviewing sales and analysing top-performing styles. I assess future ranges and make adjustments based on current trends, always keeping the customer’s needs in mind. Depending on the time of the month, I may work on new product ideas, sketch CADs, or meet with suppliers and production. Twice a week, we fit with a model to ensure the best fit, with constant discussions around design, fit, and length to meet our high standards. Your feedback is essential in guiding these decisions.
What excites you most about your role?
What excites me most about my role is the opportunity to bring joy to others. It’s a truly fulfilling and creative process designing for such an iconic brand like Sussan, and at times, I find myself reflecting on how fortunate I am to be able to do what I do. There’s something incredibly rewarding about knowing that the clothing I design can reflect and enhance someone’s individuality. It’s always surreal when I see my designs out and about.
I’m privileged to work alongside inspiring women of all ages in our head office, both as role models and mentors. In my role, I embrace the “For Women, By Women” philosophy when designing and fitting products, keeping the female body in mind across all shapes, sizes, and ages. The fashion industry can be challenging, but supporting women in expressing their confidence through clothing is incredibly rewarding.
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.
