The big decision

I recently hung up my ‘milliner hat' in exchange for my ‘fashion designer hat', and I'm loving the new look already.

My first venture into fashion began to take momentum five years ago, when I targeted a new, younger demographic of women attending the horse races. I did this by offering affordable, fashion forward headwear.

The first three collections earned me the title of "milliner to the stars". I was never comfortable with this label, as I was not traditionally trained as a milliner. I much preferred ‘headwear designer'. My self-titled label was soon stocked at Myer and over the years I've had the privilege of making creations for celebrities including: Sophia Loren, Kelly Rowland, Peaches Geldof, Jennifer Hawkins and many more. Every season saw me grow professionally, but I just felt I wasn't doing what I was most passionate about.

At the beginning of this year, my primary focus shifted to designing and creating fashionable, good quality menswear at affordable prices. My menswear crusade came about as a result of my styling work experiences, personal shopping struggles and listening to countless men complain about the lack of options in Australia.

My debut collection literally sold out in 5 months, which truly reaffirmed I was on the right path. Celebrities such as Sir Richard Branson, Carson Kresley, Larry Emdur and Jason Dundas all started wearing my label. My team began to expand and we're currently selling the Winter 2010 collection and designing Summer 2010/11 range.

I love being an ambassador for my own label, and every item of clothing I create I personally wear. Wearing my samples out allows me to test the market, and gauge my market's reactions. It's instant feedback which is "ahhmazing" to quote the fabulous Rachel Zoe.

The journey so far has allowed me to meet many amazing people in the industry : photographers, makeup and hair artists, celebrities, fashion media and other designers. Many have given me the chance to collaborate with them, allowing me to leave my stamp as a fashion stylist.

One of the most gratifying styling experiences occurred recently, when I was named a Westfield Fashion Stylist. I hosted 100 one-on-one style sessions with clients and gained such invaluable insight into what women really think and feel about fashion. I got to style 30 complete makeovers, showing women how to make the most of their best assets and look gorgeous. I've become known as the "one man Trinny and Susannah of Oz", which I quite like. I'll be doing more with Westfield in 2010, which I am ecstatic about.

Hopefully the journey over the coming years will see my menswear ranges grow, my stockists soar nationally, my business expand with the right investor strategies, and one day tackle an un-serviced segment within women's apparel. As long as I keep creating myself and doing what I am most passionate about, then for that I will be most grateful and proud. Bring on 2010.

What are some of your career changing moments?