Kangaroos, Crocs and Emus floor US buyers
In fact, the 25-year-old designer is still enthusing about the city that launched her label into the US market. Exhibiting alongside the likes of Sergio Rossi, Ted Baker and Pura Lopez at the recent World Shoe Fair in Las Vegas, Rowed said she was able to establish a solid foothold in the US.
"Obviously the US is a lot bigger than Australia and the market is hungry for designers from overseas that can offer something really unique."
Confirming buyers in New Jersey, Nebraska, New York and Canada, Rowed said her new accounts would give the label greater credibility and boost her profile within Australia.
Already stocked throughout boutiques in Sydney's eastern suburbs and inner-west, the footwear label - Agatha and Me - specialises in Australian leather goods such as Kangaroo, Crocodile, Emu and Barramundi. While the designer hopes to exploit this niche in the US, she also plans on brokering the UK market in the next two years.
"I have received a [federal government] TCF Small Business Grant that will allow me to travel to the UK several times between now and May 2007 to meet with a show my product to UK buyers. I will really focus on the USA and UK in the coming years."
In an attempt to further increase international penetration, the designer recently teamed with Australian Wool Innovation to develop a range of wool-based fabrics for shoes. The initiative has already forged the company's flagship Merino Wool low boots for Winter 2007.
"Their clever manipulation of wool has created a whole new market," Rowed said. "This vast array of amazing local materials means [the brand] has forged its own niche market."
The enterprising designer has also branched out into accessories and included bags, clutches and belts as part of her latest collection. Retailing from $300 to $700, the footwear and accessory range feature a bright palette of emerald greens, steel blues, velvet maroons and chocolate browns.
Admitting that this recent success has given her greater confidence in her designs, Rowed is now planning national domination.