A Bit About Me

Fashion has been woven into my family’s story for four generations. My great-grandfather was a manufacturer’s agent for a prestigious fashion label Chic Parisienne, established in the 1930s. He operated his agency from York Street in Sydney for many decades and also owned retail fashion outlets under the same name, laying the foundation for our family’s deep connection to the industry.

After World War II, my grandfather joined the business in the late 1940s, expanding its reach as our family became major fashion importers for brands such as Pringle and the Scottish Woollen Mills Agency. The business took my grandparents and uncle across the globe, eventually supplying high-end boutiques and leading department stores, including David Jones. Their influence extended beyond Sydney into regional centres such as Albury, supplying iconic retailers like Perls, which has been part of the Albury CBD for more than a century.

My grandmother embodied timeless elegance. She was always beautifully dressed, stepping out in exquisite Italian shoes, delicate scarves, luxurious furs and fine Scottish knitwear. Growing up surrounded by her and my mother, creativity was simply part of everyday life. They spun wool, knitted, and sewed with skill and patience, and although I never developed the same hands-on talent, I grew to deeply appreciate the artistry, dedication and tradition behind these crafts.

When my own daughter was young, that creative spark appeared again. She showed a natural curiosity and love for making things, eagerly soaking up everything she could learn from my mother’s gentle guidance. That shared passion eventually led us to Krystal. Annabel became Krystal’s very first student at just seven years old, and watching her confidence, creativity and skills flourish over the years under Krystal’s patient and gentle guidance and mentorship has been incredibly special. She is now almost fifteen, and her journey continues to reflect the importance of nurturing creativity from a young age.

As an educator, I see enormous value in preserving and passing on these creative traditions. They build confidence, patience, individuality and connection across generations. Supporting the growth of KDAA is something I am genuinely passionate about, as it ensures these beautiful skills and opportunities continue to inspire young people for years to come. This philosophy of fashion honours craftsmanship, sustainability and timeless design. It reflects a belief in clothing created with care, intention and artistry — pieces that tell a story, celebrate creativity and are valued rather than simply consumed. It supports the preservation of traditions where fashion reflects skill, patience and individuality, while nurturing these values for future generations.