STYLE MAGAZINE Q&A!
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
Shop new season
FAQ
Dress Styling and Fit
For work, minimal styling lets the print or cut do the talking. Block heels, a structured bag and simple jewellery are all you need. For events, add strappy heels, a statement earring and a clutch to shift the mood entirely. SACHA DRAKE's online stylists are available via chat for personalised recommendations if you want a second opinion.
The wrap silhouette works across most body shapes because the adjustable tie allows you to manipulate the dress to your body. It is particularly flattering on Hourglass and Pear shapes as it defines the waist and skims the hips.
For a formal event, keep accessories elevated with heeled sandals, a clutch and statement jewellery. For a weekend or travel setting, flat sandals and a sun hat bring the formality down without the dress losing its impact. The SACHA DRAKE maxi is designed to transition between settings, so the same dress works across multiple occasions with a simple accessory swap.
The midi sits roughly at mid-calf and works across a broader range of occasions including workwear, cocktail events and weddings. The maxi runs to the ankle or floor and leans more toward formal occasions and warm-weather events. Both silhouettes are available in wrap and structured styles across the SACHA DRAKE range, and both are categorised by body shape to help you find the most flattering option.
Every SACHA DRAKE garment is categorised by one of five body shapes: Hourglass, Column, Pear, Apple and Maternity. The brand designs specifically to flatter each shape rather than applying a single block pattern across all sizes. Wrap and reverse-wrap styles in particular are engineered to define the waist, balance proportions and move well on the body rather than just fitting around it.
Wrap and reverse-wrap midi styles are the strongest options for a pear shape. The wrap tie allows you to define the waist while the skirt skims over the hips rather than clinging. A-line midi silhouettes also work well for the same reason.
Stay up-to-date
Blog posts
The Best Australian Work Dresses That Are Flattering
Why Fit-First Design Actually Means Something at SACHA DRAKE
