This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the female founders shaping the future of fashion.
Behind every brand is a woman with vision, resilience, and the courage to build something of her own. From designers and entrepreneurs to innovators redefining how fashion is created and experienced, these founders are driving meaningful change across the industry.
This year’s theme, Give to Gain, highlights the power of investing in women. When women are supported with opportunity, resources, and recognition, the impact extends far beyond the individual. It strengthens communities, industries, and future generations of leaders.
By championing women who create, lead, and inspire, we help build a more inclusive and progressive future for fashion.Today, we’re proud to spotlight a group of remarkable female founders whose work continues to shape the industry.
Anna Plunkett is the co-founder and Creative Director of Australian fashion label Romance Was Born, established alongside Luke Sales in 2005.
The brand is celebrated for its imaginative storytelling, craftsmanship, and distinctive collaborations across fashion, art, and culture. Plunkett has played a key role in shaping one of Australia’s most recognisable creative fashion voices.
Bianca Spender is the founder and Creative Director of her namesake Australian fashion label, launched in 2009.
Known for sculptural tailoring and refined minimalism, Spender has built a brand that blends craftsmanship with modern femininity. Her work often explores innovative pattern-making and a commitment to thoughtful production.
Cathryn Wills is the founder of Sans Beast, a Melbourne-based accessories label redefining luxury through cruelty-free design.
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After nearly three decades in fashion, including a leadership role at Mimco, Wills launched Sans Beast in 2017 to create handbags that do not use animal leather while maintaining high design standards.
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Deborah Symond O’Neil is the founder of Mode Sportif, an Australian luxury retail destination known for its curated selection of global designers across ready-to-wear, resortwear, and lifestyle categories.
Established in 2012, Mode Sportif has built a reputation for bringing an elevated, international perspective to fashion retail, carefully selecting brands that blend craftsmanship, innovation, and modern style.
Jodhi Meares is the founder and Creative Director of The Upside, an Australian activewear brand launched in 2013.
Designed to move seamlessly between studio and street, the label combines fashion-forward design with technical performance. Meares is widely recognised for helping elevate activewear into a lifestyle category.
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Julia McCarthy is the founder and Creative Director of Friends With Frank, a Melbourne-based fashion label known for its understated luxury and refined essentials.
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Founded in 2012, the brand focuses on timeless silhouettes and responsible production, encouraging a more considered approach to wardrobe building.
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Margie Woods is the co-founder and Creative Director of Australian fashion label Viktoria & Woods. Established in 2004, the brand is known for refined wardrobe staples and a focus on natural fibres, including its signature merino wool pieces.
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Under Woods’ leadership, Viktoria & Woods has built a reputation for timeless design, responsible sourcing, and a commitment to thoughtful, modern dressing.
Nina Farran is the founder of Fashionkind, a luxury e-commerce platform dedicated to ethical and sustainable fashion.
Founded in 2016, the platform curates designers from around the world who prioritise craftsmanship, responsible production, and positive social impact. Through Fashionkind, Farran set out to prove that sustainability and luxury can coexist, connecting consumers with brands that value both design and purpose.