Fashion Business Mindset

As we come to the close of 2025, I wanted to pause and share a personal end-of-year reflection with the Fashion Business Mindset community. This year has been one of growth, challenge, learning and connection. We’ve shared over 127 episodes, welcomed many new listeners, and continued to have honest conversations about what it really takes to build, lead and sustain a fashion business in a changing market. In this solo episode, I reflect on the year that was, share a little more about my own journey, and offer grounded advice as we head into 2026. In this episode, I cover: Gratitude for our guests, listeners, team and incredible clients My journey in fashion, consulting and education Lessons from a recent trek in Nepal and what it taught me about resilience Acknowledging the challenges many brands are facing right now Why protecting margins and strengthening foundations matters more than ever Practical guidance for approaching 2026 with clarity and confidence How to seek support if you’re ready for your next phase of growth This episode is for founders, leaders and teams who want to reset, refocus and move forward with intention. Thank you for being part of Fashion Business Mindset. I’m so grateful for this community and excited for what’s ahead. ______ Work with Fashion Equipped in 2026If you're ready to take your fashion business to the next level, connect with Elizabeth and the team at Fashion Equipped. Whether you're looking for Consulting, Mentorship, or Online Learning, we're here to support your journey. Interested in Consulting?Check out Elizabeth's iconic Fashion Business Growth Roadmap Consulting and Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here: The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting Connect with us:Instagram: @‌fashionequipped Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindsetFacebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequippedWebsite: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped Interested in exploring Sponsorship of the Fashion Business Mindset Podcast? We’re inviting expressions of interest from brands, retailers and businesses aligned with our values who want to collaborate with us in bringing even more value to our fashion community. 📩 To learn more, reach out via email at [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @‌fashionbusinessmindset Let's do this together, Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we near the end of our 2025 season of Fashion Business Mindset, I’m excited to share a truly meaningful milestone — 40 years of Motto, a long-standing Australian fashion brand that continues to evolve, reinvent and inspire. In this episode, I’m joined by Faye Browne and Lauren French, the mother–daughter duo behind Motto, who have built one of the most resilient and community-driven fashion businesses in Australia. Faye began her journey as a fashion buyer before launching Motto with her husband John, driven by a passion for empowering women and celebrating individuality. Today, at 70, Faye remains a vibrant force — leading with authenticity, curiosity and a fierce commitment to helping women feel fabulous in their own skin. Lauren joined the business in 2007 and spearheaded Motto’s transition from traditional retail to a thriving eCommerce and content-driven brand. As CEO and mum of young children, she has redefined modern leadership — building a sophisticated marketing engine, embracing digital storytelling, and growing an engaged community through daily LIVE try-ons. During our conversation, we dive into: The origin story — how Motto began and the early lessons that shaped the brand Digital reinvention — Lauren’s pivot from bricks-and-mortar to eCommerce before the industry was ready Hybrid retail — balancing online growth with the role of physical stores The power of community — why Motto’s LIVE try-ons became a phenomenon and a conversion machine Intergenerational leadership — navigating roles, decision-making and shared vision Who the Motto woman is today — and how she has evolved Longevity in fashion — the mindsets, product strategy and courage required to stay relevant for four decades Authenticity & empowerment — Faye and Lauren’s personal practices, leadership philosophies and approach to style What’s next — the future of Motto as it steps into its fifth decade This conversation is packed with wisdom for founders, leaders and anyone building a brand designed to last. Tune in to hear the story behind 40 years of reinvention, resilience and community — from two women who continue to shape the Australian fashion landscape in their own bold and brilliant way. Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platform. You can connect with Motto at: Web: Women's Boutique Clothing Store Online | Motto Fashions Instagram: Motto | Womens Fashion Australia (@mottofashions) • Instagram profile YouTube: mottofashions ______________ Work with Fashion EquippedIf you're ready to take your fashion business to the next level, connect with Elizabeth and the team at Fashion Equipped. Whether you're looking for Consulting, Mentorship, or Online Learning, we're here to support your journey. Interested in Consulting?Check out Elizabeth's iconic Fashion Business Growth Roadmap Consulting and Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here: The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting Connect with us:Instagram: @‌fashionequipped Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindsetFacebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequippedWebsite: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped Interested in exploring Sponsorship of the Fashion Business Mindset Podcast? We’re inviting expressions of interest from brands, retailers and businesses aligned with our values who want to collaborate with us in bringing even more value to our fashion community. 📩 To learn more, reach out via email at [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @‌fashionbusinessmindset Let's do this together, Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is our LIVE recording from the Melbourne Global Sourcing Expo Seminar Series. While the audio is not usual studio quality, the content of this dynamic conversation was too good not to share! This conversation brings together three industry leaders: Elizabeth (Fashion Equipped), Kelly Slessor (The Ecommerce Tribe, Tribe Gen AI), and Christina Exie (Stacked Studio) to share their perspectives on the strategies shaping the future of fashion and lifestyle brands. The discussion spans sourcing, go-to-market execution, scaling through eCommerce, and the rapid adoption of AI, blending Elizabeth’s decades of strategic growth and leadership expertise with Kelly’s digital and AI insights and Christina’s product, sourcing, and brand development experience. Whether you’re a startup or an established brand, you’ll take away actionable strategies and inspiration to scale and strengthen your business in today’s fast-moving market. You can download the freebies offered to the live audience here: Navigating the Sourcing Expo Checklist & Free Mini Courses (Elizabeth) Join Stacked Studio Free Membership (Christina) Win a Copy or Pre-Order AI for eCommerce Book (Kelly) ____ Work with Fashion EquippedIf you're ready to take your fashion business to the next level, connect with Elizabeth and the team at Fashion Equipped. Whether you're looking for Consulting, Mentorship, or Online Learning, we're here to support your journey. Interested in Consulting?Check out Elizabeth's iconic Fashion Business Growth Roadmap Consulting and Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here: The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting Interested in exploring Sponsorship of the Fashion Business Mindset Podcast? We’re inviting expressions of interest from brands, retailers and businesses aligned with our values who want to collaborate with us in bringing even more value to our fashion community. 📩 To learn more, reach out via email at [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @‌fashionbusinessmindset Connect with us:Instagram: @‌fashionequippedPodcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindsetFacebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequippedWebsite: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped Let's do this together, Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I’m joined by two amazing women who are redefining the way we see ourselves and the world around us — Taryn Brumfitt and Dr Zali Yager, Co-Directors of The Embrace Collective. Taryn is an Australian of the Year, award-winning filmmaker, bestselling author, and founder of the global Body Image Movement. Zali is an Adjunct Associate Professor and internationally recognised body image researcher who’s published more than 60 academic papers and dedicated her career to creating a safer body-image environment for the next generation. Together, they’ve built a movement that’s reached over 200 million people worldwide — blending storytelling, education, and evidence-based change. During this chat, we dive into: Taryn’s journey — from her viral “before-and-after” photo to the global Embrace films and the founding of The Embrace Collective. How Zali’s research and lived experience have combined to turn academic insights into real-world impact. The growing body-image challenges we’re facing— from social media and AI filters to the pressures of visibility in today’s digital world. The creation of the Feel Good Fashion Program — a new initiative empowering brands to build inclusive, body-safe environments for their teams and customers. Practical ways fashion leaders can take action — from representation and team training to rethinking the change-room and retail experience. And so much more! Both Taryn and Zali are doing powerful, transformative work that’s changing the conversation on body image and helping brands and communities create lasting impact. This is an inspiring conversation where we explore how we can all be part of a more inclusive and empowered fashion future. _____ You can connect with Taryn & Zali at: The Embrace Collective Taryn Instagram Dr Zali Yager Instagram Where to watch the Embrace film Please reach out to Taryn or Zali if you would like to know more about the Feel Good Fashion Program. __________ Join us at The Global Sourcing Expo. Use code VIP for complimentary seminar tickets. Elizabeth’s seminar is on Tuesday, 18th Nov 3 pm - 4 pm. Book here: Global Sourcing Seminars | Global Sourcing Expo Speakers: Elizabeth Formosa – Founder, Fashion EquippedA strategic advisor with decades of experience in brand growth, sourcing, and business strategy, Elizabeth has guided hundreds of brands across fashion, retail, and wholesale. As host of the Fashion Business Mindset podcast and leader of global sourcing trips, she brings a sharp lens on scaling strategies that balance creativity with commercial success. Kelly Slessor – Digital Marketing Strategist & AI ExpertFounder of The Ecommerce Tribe and Tribe Gen AI, Kelly has worked with global names such as Westfield, Woolworths, and V&W, as well as more than 1,000 small and medium businesses. With 20+ years of experience in digital strategy and AI adoption, she is a frequent media commentator and was recently recognised as a Global Retail Expert 2025. Christina Exie – Designer, Entrepreneur & Co-Founder of Stacked StudioAfter winning Project Runway Australia, Christina worked across global brands including Sneakerboy and Esprit before launching her own successful athleisure brand, EXIE. Today, as co-founder of Stacked Studio, she helps brands bring designs to market with technical expertise in activewear and lifestyle apparel, and deep knowledge of sourcing and product development. Interested in exploring Sponsorship of the Fashion Business Mindset Podcast? We’re inviting expressions of interest from brands, retailers and businesses aligned with our values who want to collaborate with us in bringing even more value to our fashion community. 📩 To learn more, reach out via email at [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @‌fashionbusinessmindset Work with Fashion EquippedIf you're ready to take your fashion business to the next level, connect with Elizabeth and the team at Fashion Equipped. Whether you're looking for Consulting, Mentorship, or Online Learning, we're here to support your journey. Interested in Consulting?Check out Elizabeth's iconic Fashion Business Growth Roadmap Consulting and Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here: The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting Connect with us:Instagram: @‌fashionequipped Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindsetFacebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequippedWebsite: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped Let's do this together, Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Event Alert!I’ll be leading an Industry Panel at the Global Sourcing Expo in Melbourne on 18 November, alongside Kelly Slessor and Christina Exie. Our topic is Growth, eCommerce and AI in Fashion. This conversation brings together three industry leaders in a discussion spanning sourcing, go-to-market execution, scaling through eCommerce, and the rapid adoption of AI. We’ll blend my strategic growth and leadership expertise with Kelly’s digital and AI insights, and Christina’s product, sourcing, and brand development experience. Whether you’re an established brand or a startup, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies and inspiration to scale and strengthen your business in today’s fast-moving market. We hope you can join us, and of course take time to elevate your sourcing strategy at the Global Sourcing Expo, Melbourne, from 18–20 November. My guest on this episode is: Bianca Gregg, a leading figure among a new generation of brand leaders. As Co-Founder and strategist, Bianca has grown Del Rainbow from a boutique studio into a globally recognised fashion and logistics agency with teams across key global markets. Known for her unparalleled industry knowledge, intuitive approach, magnetic drive, and considered leadership, Bianca brings precision and unwavering commitment to every partnership. Her approach to wholesale is deeply holistic, balancing creative insight with commercial clarity. Bianca champions direct, transparent communication between brand and buyer, creating lasting value across every touchpoint. From emerging designers to established names, Bianca works closely with each client to craft a brand experience that’s both true to its ethos and tailored for global reach. Under her guidance, Del Rainbow has played a pivotal role in elevating emerging brands to international recognition, offering strategic direction that builds lasting global presence and long term brand value. With dedicated teams in New York, London, and Byron Bay, Del Rainbow continues to shape the growth of some of the most influential and forward-moving brands in the market today. During my chat with Bianca, we discussed… Building conscious brands and why Del Rainbow has become recognised globally for championing values-led, considered fashion businesses and creating international connections. The wholesale landscape, including how to authentically connect brands, retailers, and customers, and the importance of service, storytelling, and strong relationships. Supply chain strategy, critical paths, and production planning — and how brands can adapt quickly to changing timelines and market demands. US tariffs and trade complexities, including fluctuating tariff rates, the impact on brand margins, and strategies to mitigate costs through sourcing diversification, correct HS code classifications, and renegotiating pricing structures. Holding stock in the US and forecasting demand, including how to align with US buying calendars, work with 3PLs, and adopt rolling 3–6 month forecasts rather than long-term commitments. Advice for brands today — from collaboration and adaptability to range planning, global connectivity, and staying true to values while navigating a complex global market. You can connect with Bianca at: HOME - Del Rainbow del.rainbow (@del.rainbow) https://www.linkedin.com/in/bianca-gregg-64bb3761/?originalSubdomain=au __________ Join us at The Global Sourcing Expo. Use code VIP for complimentary seminar tickets. Elizabeth’s seminar is on Tuesday, 18th Nov 3 pm - 4 pm. Book here: Global Sourcing Seminars | Global Sourcing Expo Speakers: Elizabeth Formosa – Founder, Fashion EquippedA strategic advisor with decades of experience in brand growth, sourcing, and business strategy, Elizabeth has guided hundreds of brands across fashion, retail, and wholesale. As host of the Fashion Business Mindset podcast and leader of global sourcing trips, she brings a sharp lens on scaling strategies that balance creativity with commercial success. Kelly Slessor – Digital Marketing Strategist & AI ExpertFounder of The Ecommerce Tribe and Tribe Gen AI, Kelly has worked with global names such as Westfield, Woolworths, and V&W, as well as more than 1,000 small and medium businesses. With 20+ years of experience in digital strategy and AI adoption, she is a frequent media commentator and was recently recognised as a Global Retail Expert 2025. Christina Exie – Designer, Entrepreneur & Co-Founder of Stacked StudioAfter winning Project Runway Australia, Christina worked across global brands including Sneakerboy and Esprit before launching her own successful athleisure brand, EXIE. Today, as co-founder of Stacked Studio, she helps brands bring designs to market with technical expertise in activewear and lifestyle apparel, and deep knowledge of sourcing and product development. Interested in exploring Sponsorship of the Fashion Business Mindset Podcast? We’re inviting expressions of interest from brands, retailers and businesses aligned with our values who want to collaborate with us in bringing even more value to our fashion community. 📩 To learn more, reach out via email at [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @‌fashionbusinessmindset Work with Fashion EquippedIf you're ready to take your fashion business to the next level, connect with Elizabeth and the team at Fashion Equipped. Whether you're looking for Consulting, Mentorship, or Online Learning, we're here to support your journey. Interested in Consulting?Check out Elizabeth's iconic Fashion Business Growth Roadmap Consulting and Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here: The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting Connect with us:Instagram: @‌fashionequipped Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindsetFacebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequippedWebsite: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped Let's do this together, Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.