Get Ready for the Party Season With Creative Director of Désordre, Shannon Thomas
Party szn ready
Style queen and curator Shannon Thomas, the founder and creative director of désordre, was like many of us—growing up utterly obsessed with fashion. She spent countless hours stalking Vogue forums, exploring blogspots, and collecting every magazine she could get her hands on each month. With a natural flair for creativity, Shannon set out to dress women head to toe in exclusive, one-of-a-kind looks.
“I would see runway collections and editorials, and I could never find those pieces. Even as an 18-year-old, I wanted to feel and admire them, even if I couldn’t afford them!” she says. Now, she’s living that dream, sharing her world with her “désordre girls.” Désordre is a curated space that embodies the energy of today’s woman, allowing her to express herself through exclusive, unique pieces that feel truly special.
This leads us to Shannon’s story. Editor Kiri, a big fan of their pink-covered boutique on James Street, had the chance to ask Shannon all about how she launched her brand back in 2009, the ways she’s bringing a new level of glamour to women’s wardrobes, and her top styling tips for the anticipated party season. If you’re just here for party outfit inspo, scroll to the bottom.
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Before launching désordre, Shannon gained invaluable hands-on experience in retail and styling, exploring various facets of the fashion industry. She always knew she wanted to create something unique, which ultimately fueled her journey into luxury fashion curation.
When I asked Shannon what inspired her journey into fashion, she shared, “Fashion, for me, has always been a form of expression. I’m inspired by how people can transform their mood, confidence, or presence simply through what they wear. I saw a gap in the market for a luxury boutique that wasn’t just about high-end brands, but about finding pieces that tell a story—timeless and refined, yet alive in the moment. These are the pieces that stand the test of time, treadless! I intend to pass my collection down to my daughters.”
A typical day in the life for Shannon is always different. Where some days she spends her day at the désordre boutiques, working on visual merchandising or styling our clients. Other days are more behind-the-scenes at désordre HQ curating collections, meeting with designers, or planning upcoming activations and campaigns. And of course, always keeping a close eye on what’s happening in the world; both fashion and the global economic system.
Shannon Thomas describes her style as eclectic yet chic, blending high-end and avant-garde pieces, influenced by icons like Kate Moss and Carine Roitfeld, recently wearing a Peter Petrov tank with jeans and a Magda Butrym blazer one day, and her Désordre Bradshaw dress with sandals the next.
What’s currently on your wishlist at Désordre?
Shannon: I’m obsessed with some of the new pieces from Magda Butrym, especially the statement outerwear. The leather is so luxurious. Also, I’ve got my eye on the Peter Petrov Boulevard Knee High Lipstick Boots — they’re a must-have for any season.
What are your top three favourite brands or designers?
Shannon: Right now, I’m loving Magda Butrym, Peter Petrov and Aya Muse. They all have such distinct perspectives on femininity and strength, and you can find ways to wear the pieces in the day and the evening.
Can you give us some background on Désordre and how it came about?
Désordre started as an extension of my passion for fashion and luxury, but with a twist. I wanted to create a space where women could come in and feel bold, powerful, and unapologetic in their fashion choices. It’s not just about the brands; it’s about the energy we create in-boutique and the confidence we instil through our collections.
In 2009, I was 21, it was a ‘travelling boutique’ before ‘pop ups’ were popular, we incorporated gallery installations with the brands that believed in the désordre vision. I’m thankful that we were supported by incredible Australian brands from the beginning! Willow, Ellery, and Aje were with désordre from inception.
When asked how she sources fashion and discovers upcoming designers for désordre, Shannon Thomas emphasised her passion for finding new talent. “We always keep an eye on emerging trends, but I love discovering fresh designers,” she explained. “Sometimes it’s through fashion shows, other times through industry connections. I’m constantly on the lookout for those who bring something exciting to the table. Being true to an aesthetic is crucial; a designer should have a clear vision that aligns with their collections, something distinct from the pack.”
Shannon believes what sets désordre apart in luxury fashion is the combination of exclusive, carefully curated pieces and a hands-on approach to styling. “We’re not just selling fashion; we’re offering an experience. The way we interact with clients and help them find their own style is what truly makes us unique. You might spot a head-to-toe désordre look on Instagram that you never thought you’d wear. When you try it on and receive compliments, that feeling becomes addictive!”
Regarding her strategy for curating the collection and staying ahead of trends, she noted, “We blend trend forecasting with our instinct for what our clients will love. It’s not just about following trends; it’s about setting them. I gravitate toward standout pieces that I would personally want to wear. If a designer showcases a ‘best seller,’ I tend to avoid it because it loses that special, exclusive feeling that I want our clients to experience.”
Shannon also highlighted the importance of social media for the brand. “It’s essential for us! It allows us to connect with clients and showcase our collections in real-time. Platforms like Instagram help us communicate our brand’s voice, share behind-the-scenes moments, and engage with our fashion-forward audience. We love sharing authentic content without heavy editing—just our staff and models in their element during shoots.”
Excited about new designers, Shannon mentioned, “I’m particularly thrilled about Sydney-turned-LA, Asta Resort, who are making waves with artisan-crafted designs that have a versatile, retro glamour.”
As for the upcoming BY DÉSORDRE collection, she revealed, “It’s all about bold, timeless pieces focusing on strong silhouettes and luxurious Italian fabrications—all 100% designed and made in Australia. Expect elevated staples that empower the modern woman, with some signature pink, of course!”
As a Sydney-sider, we asked Shannon about how does Sydney’s fashion scene influence your curation. She says “Sydney is such a vibrant city, and it’s reflected in the fashion scene here. It’s a mix of laid-back, coastal vibes with a city edge.” That combination influences how she curate our collections. Versatile pieces that work for both the relaxed and bold sides of Sydney life. “I grew up going to the beach and surfing (not well). My dad is in the music industry and I was surrounded by Rock n’ Roll bands and concerts, while my mum worked in Atelier, an iconic leather fashion store in the 90s. Sydney to me will always be this cool beach city where you can wear whatever you want as long as you can hit the ground running.”
What do you love most about Sydney’s culture and lifestyle?
I love the energy of the city. The way we can be at the beach one minute and at an amazing dinner or event the next. It’s this mix of casual and cosmopolitan. Anything could happen.
What does Shannon love most about Sydney’s culture and lifestyle?
“I love the energy of the city,” she says. “One minute, you can be at the beach, and the next, at an amazing dinner or event. It’s this perfect blend of casual and cosmopolitan—anything can happen!”
How would she describe Sydney’s fashion scene in three words?
“Effortless, current, and sexy.”
Shannon’s ideal weekend starts with a brisk power walk through Centennial Park with her baby, or perhaps a run or exercise class to kick off the day. Afterward, she enjoys brunch by the beach with her family. In the evening, she likes to explore new restaurants with friends and family. “If there’s a great event or show happening, I’m always keen to take my girls along. It’s important to expose them to the rich cultural melting pot we’re so blessed to have in Sydney,” she adds.
What are her three favourite places to dine in Sydney?
“I’m a big fan of Sean’s for its comforting home-style food and surf views, it’s iconic Bondi! I also love Mimi’s for a more elevated experience. And nothing beats an amazing home-cooked meal with the family.”
Where’s her favourite spot to get a coffee or cocktail in Sydney?
“For coffee, I enjoy the relaxed vibe of Jackie’s in Paddington. For cocktails, our new neighbors at Bondi PKT make an excellent ‘désordre margarita’ with my signature chili salt on the side. If I’m having a drink, it’s always that!”
SHANNON’S TOP FIVE LOOKS FOR PARTY SEASON
This summer is all about romance and beauty.
If in doubt, think ‘pretty’ and keep it simple. We’re seeing chocolate brown paired with black in styling, along with statement belts and vibrant colours. The new shades coming through have a military vibe, focusing on boots and sandals. You absolutely NEED a pair of capris and a pretty white top.
1. The looks I’m picking reflect what I would wear to various events, whether it’s a wedding or drinks at Icebergs. Check out my favourites from désordre. I’m obsessed with the polka dot top and capri pants—I need them! I would style them with a bronzed look, beachy waves, and Magda sunglasses.
désordre Fait Par Foutch Marie Polka Dot Capri $400
2. The AYA MUSE chocolate Edo dress is a must-have. I missed out on this dress last time (I was pregnant), and I won’t let that happen again! It’s already almost sold out! It’s perfect for a wedding, but you can easily dress it down; I’ll be wearing it in Bondi with sandals.
désordre Aya Muse Edo Chocolate Dress $990
3. It’s all about RED RED RED this season, and this MIRROR PALAIS A-line supermodel dress is both sexy and simple. Plus, it comes with little bike shorts, so you can dance the night away! I’d wear this with cute sneakers or heels (and a fake tan).
désordre Mirror Palais Lady Di A-Line Rouge Dress $750
4. All hail Magda—when in doubt, always go for Magda. I don’t know how she does it! Her designs are feminine, luxurious, and sophisticated. She’s in a league of her own.
désordre Magda Butrym Choker Sequin Mini Silver Dress $3,050
5. Finally, my DESORDRE Macpherson or Bradshaw dresses are literally the perfect little black dresses. I designed them to be travel and date-night ready. The entire collection embodies what to wear when you just don’t know what to wear! Think 90s effortless, sexy, yet timeless!
désordre Macpherson Black Dress $690
