Peek Inside The Creative Mind Of The Woman Behind This Iconic Label!
Sacha fierce?
She’s been dressing Brisbane women for almost two decades in vibrant shapes, patterns and persona. Now, as part of this ‘Made in Brisbane’, get to know the woman behind the iconic SACHA DRAKE label as we sat down with her for a Q&A.
Hi Sacha, what’s your official title?
Designer/ Director
Where did you grow up in Brisbane?
All over but we finally settled in West End.
When and where did your career start?
Brisbane in November 2002 was when I officially stopped working for anyone else.
Did you study in Brisbane?
I had private tuition in pattern making and sewing from the age of 14. At 17 I did one year at Mt Gravatt TAFE
What were you doing before starting your own label?
I was self-employed as a designer at 18. I travelled to London and Italy where I studied costume design and film directing. After that I worked in Sydney and Queensland in the film industry. Then I lived in the USA and did volunteer events organising jobs before returning to Australia. I decided to get a ‘real job” in recruitment and worked in Brisbane and Melbourne as a recruitment project manager. Finally, at around 30 I became self-employed as a designer.
What drew you to fashion design?
It’s something that is completely natural to me. The engineering side of pattern making, the challenge of creating something from nothing. Aspiring to dress and flatter real women’s bodies and the psychology of dressing women… oh and running a business!! It’s constantly stimulating.
What is your favourite part of the whole design process for a new collection?
When it’s all finished! Before that it’s a love hate balancing act of self-doubt and perfectionism.
What’s something people wouldn’t know about your fashion label?
Often many people don’t know we are from Brisbane and half of the clothes are made here.
What are you most proud of?
17 years of survival and growth in the face of constant change and challenges.
What does a work-life balance look like to you?
Ha! Ha! Work really hard. Have a holiday. Repeat.
How do you look after yourself?
I do the stuff that you’re meant to do! Eat well, sleep well and exercise. Pilates is wonderful for me.
Who or what inspires you?
Carla Zampatti for her longevity in a constantly evolving industry.
What is your advice to others wanting to start their own label?
Work in the industry first.
Anything exciting coming up for you and the SACHA DRAKE label?
We are putting the final touches on our Autumn 2020 collection inspired by Opera Singer, Maria Callas. It’s one of my favourite collections to date and I can’t wait to show it.
Anything else you would like to mention?
My success is only the sum of the extraordinary women on our team and our lovely customers. Ohh … and my gorgeous husband and family!
Quick fire questions:
Hair salon?
Hudson Hair – my hairdresser also does our photo shoots.
Next holiday?
South East Queensland! We are so lucky to live here!
Fashion style?
Striking but feminine
Dining?
Darling and Co. our local – such great fresh food!
Coffee?
Who Shot the Barista on Jane St West End
