Collette Dinnigan

In fashion there are the good, the greats and the simply amazing! So when the simply amazing tend to shut shop, I  feel there is a massive hole in the fashion industry.

Recently I landed in Sydney to meet with one of the greatest Australian fashion talents of all time, Collette Dinnigan, only to hear the saddening news of her decision to close the doors of her eponymous label by Christmas.

Launching her own fashion collection in 1992, Collette reached international borders as the first Australian to launch a ready-to-wear collection in Paris in 1995. The recent announcement took many by surprise and came shortly after her Paris Fashion Week showcase.

As a woman I believe she made the absolute best decision for her family. As a designer I know that Australian fashion died a little when the announcement hit the national newspapers. I find it quite amusing when people say, the fashion industry is so glamourous or what do you do all day, design? Little do people know the rag trade demands 15 hour days 6 days per week in order to be successful soon consuming your life. After 20 years of major, soaring success in the fashion industry, it seems Collette felt it was time to  prioritise for her children. I couldn’t agree more. Lets raise our glasses to one of the greatest Australian fashion designers and wish her well on her upcoming journey. Best of luck Collette. Take a bow, I believe you have earnt it!