Fashion Business Mindset

In this episode of Fashion Business Mindset, Elizabeth Formosa sits down with Gosia Piątek, Founder of Kowtow, a pioneer in sustainable and circular fashion.

Founded in 2006, Kowtow has built a global reputation for its commitment to ethical production, Fairtrade organic cotton, and a fully transparent supply chain.

But what truly sets the brand apart is its long-term vision.

From the very beginning, Gosia set out to create clothing that comes from the earth and can safely return to it.

Nearly 20 years later, that vision has been realised.

Kowtow has developed a groundbreaking process using biochar, allowing garments to be returned to the soil without harm and completely free from plastic.

In this conversation, we explore:

• The original vision behind Kowtow and what inspired Gosia to challenge the fashion industry

• Building a sustainable brand before sustainability was mainstream

• The reality of creating a fully transparent and ethical supply chain

• Kowtow’s biochar innovation and what it means for the future of circular fashion

• Customer demand for sustainability and how it has evolved

• The current state of fashion trade and navigating economic uncertainty

• Balancing purpose and profitability in a values-driven business

• Marketing and storytelling for a conscious brand

• Leadership, mindset and founder growth

• What the future holds for fashion and the opportunity for brands willing to lead change

This episode is a must-listen for founders, designers and industry leaders looking to build commercially strong, responsible and future-focused fashion businesses.

About the Guest:

Gosia Piątek is the Founder of Kowtow, a globally recognised sustainable fashion brand known for its commitment to Fairtrade organic cotton, ethical production and circular design principles.

Explore Kowtow at:

Web: Kowtow Ethical & Organic Clothingl

Download the Kowtow plastic-free guide here: Plastic Free Handbook

Read about biochar here: Our garments now feed the earth

How Kowtow went plastic-free here: Plastic Free

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About Fashion Business Mindset

Fashion Business Mindset explores the real stories behind fashion brands, retailers and industry leaders. Hosted by fashion business strategist Elizabeth Formosa, the podcast shares practical insights on leadership, strategy and building resilient fashion businesses.

________

Work with Fashion Equipped in 2026

Fashion Equipped partners with established fashion businesses at pivotal stages of growth and evolution.

Elizabeth Formosa provides senior-level strategic advisory across strategy, structure, profitability and decision-making — helping founders and leadership teams navigate increasing complexity with commercially grounded perspective and clear direction.

This is experienced, considered guidance for building resilient, high-performing fashion businesses that are designed to last.

Interested in Strategic Advisory?

The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap is my signature strategic advisory engagement for founders and leadership teams at pivotal stages of growth.
Together, we bring structure, financial clarity and a dynamic 12-month growth plan into the business.

Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here.

The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting

Connect with us:

Instagram: @‌fashionequipped
Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindset
Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped
Website: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped

Interested in Sponsorship?

We invite expressions of interest from aligned brands, retailers and industry partners who want to support commercially grounded conversations shaping the future of fashion.

To learn more, reach out via email at [email protected]
or DM @‌fashionbusinessmindset

Let’s build your next phase of growth — with clarity and confidence.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What It Takes to Run a Resilient Fashion Boutique

Running an independent fashion boutique today demands resilience, commercial discipline, deep customer connection and the ability to adapt as the retail landscape continues to evolve.

In this episode of Fashion Business Mindset, I’m joined by Adella Greenwood, co-founder of Grace & Willow, a much-loved multi-brand boutique located in the seaside suburb of Williamstown in Victoria.

With more than two decades in fashion and retail, Adella has built a thriving boutique known for its strong sense of community and its carefully curated mix of Australian and international designers. Together with her sister Hannah, she has created a space where confident, expressive women can discover pieces that reflect their personal style.

In our conversation, Adella shares the journey of building an independent retail business over more than a decade, and the realities of operating on the front line of fashion retail.

We explore how she approaches brand selection and buying, how independent boutiques navigate competition from larger retailers and online platforms, and why customer relationships and community remain at the heart of Grace & Willow’s success.

Adella also shares her perspective on the current retail climate, how customer behaviour has shifted in recent years, and where she sees both risk and opportunity for independent retailers moving forward.

This is a thoughtful and honest conversation about what it truly takes to build and sustain an independent fashion business today.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How Grace & Willow began and the vision behind the boutique

• The evolution of Adella’s buying strategy and brand mix

• Navigating competition from larger retailers and online platforms

• The importance of community and customer relationships in boutique retail

• Leading a small retail team and building a strong culture

• Shifts in customer behaviour and the current retail climate

• What discipline and resilience look like in independent retail today

Explore Grace & Willow at:

https://www.graceandwillow.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/graceandwillow/?hl=en

_________

About Fashion Business Mindset

Fashion Business Mindset explores the real stories behind fashion brands, retailers and industry leaders. Hosted by fashion business strategist Elizabeth Formosa, the podcast shares practical insights on leadership, strategy and building resilient fashion businesses.

________

Work with Fashion Equipped in 2026

Fashion Equipped partners with established fashion businesses at pivotal stages of growth and evolution.

Elizabeth Formosa provides senior-level strategic advisory across strategy, structure, profitability and decision-making — helping founders and leadership teams navigate increasing complexity with commercially grounded perspective and clear direction.

This is experienced, considered guidance for building resilient, high-performing fashion businesses that are designed to last.

Interested in Strategic Advisory?

The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap is my signature strategic advisory engagement for founders and leadership teams at pivotal stages of growth.
Together, we bring structure, financial clarity and a dynamic 12-month growth plan into the business.

Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here.

The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting

Connect with us:

Instagram: @‌fashionequipped
Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindset
Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped
Website: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped

Interested in Sponsorship?

We invite expressions of interest from aligned brands, retailers and industry partners who want to support commercially grounded conversations shaping the future of fashion.

To learn more, reach out via email at [email protected]
or DM @‌fashionbusinessmindset

Let’s build your next phase of growth — with clarity and confidence.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this opening episode of Season 7, Elizabeth Formosa unpacks what profitability really requires in 2026 — and why net cash in the bank matters just as much as the P&L.

Across the industry, many brands are growing. Revenue is up. Orders are flowing. From the outside, things look strong. But internally, margins are tighter, cash flow feels heavier, and decision-making has become more complex.

This episode explores the shift required for founders who want sustainable, commercially sound growth.

Elizabeth shares the five core pillars she sees separating reactive businesses from intentional ones:

• Clarity before growth

• Intentional product and inventory decisions

• Channel discipline

• Structure that matches the stage of the business

• Reducing founder and leadership decision load

You’ll also hear why:

– Profit is an accounting outcome
– Cash is operational reality
– And disciplined decision-making is the true driver of both

This is not a tactical episode about quick wins.
It’s a strategic conversation about building resilient fashion businesses that can grow, reinvest and stabilise with confidence.

If 2026 feels like a year where your next decision truly matters, this episode is for you.

_____

Work with Fashion Equipped in 2026

Ready to scale with clarity, confidence and intention?

Fashion Equipped partners with established fashion businesses at pivotal stages of growth and evolution.

Elizabeth Formosa provides senior-level strategic advisory across strategy, structure, profitability and decision-making — helping founders and leadership teams navigate increasing complexity with commercially grounded perspective and clear direction.

This is experienced, considered guidance for building resilient, high-performing fashion businesses that are designed to last.

Interested in Strategic Advisory?

The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap is my signature strategic advisory engagement for founders and leadership teams at pivotal stages of growth.
Together, we bring structure, financial clarity and a dynamic 12-month growth plan into the business.

Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here.

The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting

Connect with us:

Instagram: @‌fashionequipped
Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindset
Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped
Website: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped

Interested in Sponsorship?

We invite expressions of interest from aligned brands, retailers and industry partners who want to support commercially grounded conversations shaping the future of fashion.

To learn more, reach out via email at [email protected]
or DM @‌fashionbusinessmindset

Let’s build your next phase of growth — with clarity and confidence.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we come to the close of 2025, I wanted to pause and share a personal end-of-year reflection with the Fashion Business Mindset community.

This year has been one of growth, challenge, learning and connection. We’ve shared over 127 episodes, welcomed many new listeners, and continued to have honest conversations about what it really takes to build, lead and sustain a fashion business in a changing market.

In this solo episode, I reflect on the year that was, share a little more about my own journey, and offer grounded advice as we head into 2026.

In this episode, I cover:

• Gratitude for our guests, listeners, team and incredible clients

• My journey in fashion, consulting and education

• Lessons from a recent trek in Nepal and what it taught me about resilience

• Acknowledging the challenges many brands are facing right now

• Why protecting margins and strengthening foundations matters more than ever

• Practical guidance for approaching 2026 with clarity and confidence

• How to seek support if you’re ready for your next phase of growth

This episode is for founders, leaders and teams who want to reset, refocus and move forward with intention.

Thank you for being part of Fashion Business Mindset. I’m so grateful for this community and excited for what’s ahead.

______

Work with Fashion Equipped in 2026
If you're ready to take your fashion business to the next level, connect with Elizabeth and the team at Fashion Equipped. Whether you're looking for Consulting, Mentorship, or Online Learning, we're here to support your journey.

Interested in Consulting?
Check out Elizabeth's iconic Fashion Business Growth Roadmap Consulting and Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here: The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting

Connect with us:
Instagram: @‌fashionequipped
Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindset
Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped
Website: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped

Interested in exploring Sponsorship of the Fashion Business Mindset Podcast?

We’re inviting expressions of interest from brands, retailers and businesses aligned with our values who want to collaborate with us in bringing even more value to our fashion community.

📩 To learn more, reach out via email at [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @‌fashionbusinessmindset

Let's do this together,

Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we near the end of our 2025 season of Fashion Business Mindset, I’m excited to share a truly meaningful milestone — 40 years of Motto, a long-standing Australian fashion brand that continues to evolve, reinvent and inspire.

In this episode, I’m joined by Faye Browne and Lauren French, the mother–daughter duo behind Motto, who have built one of the most resilient and community-driven fashion businesses in Australia.

Faye began her journey as a fashion buyer before launching Motto with her husband John, driven by a passion for empowering women and celebrating individuality. Today, at 70, Faye remains a vibrant force — leading with authenticity, curiosity and a fierce commitment to helping women feel fabulous in their own skin.

Lauren joined the business in 2007 and spearheaded Motto’s transition from traditional retail to a thriving eCommerce and content-driven brand. As CEO and mum of young children, she has redefined modern leadership — building a sophisticated marketing engine, embracing digital storytelling, and growing an engaged community through daily LIVE try-ons.

During our conversation, we dive into:

• The origin story — how Motto began and the early lessons that shaped the brand

• Digital reinvention — Lauren’s pivot from bricks-and-mortar to eCommerce before the industry was ready

• Hybrid retail — balancing online growth with the role of physical stores

• The power of community — why Motto’s LIVE try-ons became a phenomenon and a conversion machine

• Intergenerational leadership — navigating roles, decision-making and shared vision

• Who the Motto woman is today — and how she has evolved

• Longevity in fashion — the mindsets, product strategy and courage required to stay relevant for four decades

• Authenticity & empowerment — Faye and Lauren’s personal practices, leadership philosophies and approach to style

• What’s next — the future of Motto as it steps into its fifth decade

This conversation is packed with wisdom for founders, leaders and anyone building a brand designed to last.

Tune in to hear the story behind 40 years of reinvention, resilience and community — from two women who continue to shape the Australian fashion landscape in their own bold and brilliant way.

Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platform.

You can connect with Motto at:

Web:

Women's Boutique Clothing Store Online | Motto Fashions

Instagram:

Motto | Womens Fashion Australia (@mottofashions) • Instagram profile

YouTube:

mottofashions

______________

Work with Fashion Equipped
If you're ready to take your fashion business to the next level, connect with Elizabeth and the team at Fashion Equipped. Whether you're looking for Consulting, Mentorship, or Online Learning, we're here to support your journey.

Interested in Consulting?
Check out Elizabeth's iconic Fashion Business Growth Roadmap Consulting and Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here: The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting

Connect with us:
Instagram: @‌fashionequipped
Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindset
Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped
Website: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped

Interested in exploring Sponsorship of the Fashion Business Mindset Podcast?

We’re inviting expressions of interest from brands, retailers and businesses aligned with our values who want to collaborate with us in bringing even more value to our fashion community.

📩 To learn more, reach out via email at [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @‌fashionbusinessmindset

Let's do this together,

Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is our LIVE recording from the Melbourne Global Sourcing Expo Seminar Series.

While the audio is not usual studio quality, the content of this dynamic conversation was too good not to share! 

This conversation brings together three industry leaders: Elizabeth (Fashion Equipped), Kelly Slessor (The Ecommerce Tribe, Tribe Gen AI), and Christina Exie (Stacked Studio) to share their perspectives on the strategies shaping the future of fashion and lifestyle brands.

The discussion spans sourcing, go-to-market execution, scaling through eCommerce, and the rapid adoption of AI, blending Elizabeth’s decades of strategic growth and leadership expertise with Kelly’s digital and AI insights and Christina’s product, sourcing, and brand development experience.

Whether you’re a startup or an established brand, you’ll take away actionable strategies and inspiration to scale and strengthen your business in today’s fast-moving market.

You can download the freebies offered to the live audience here:

Navigating the Sourcing Expo Checklist & Free Mini Courses (Elizabeth)

Join Stacked Studio Free Membership (Christina)

Win a Copy or Pre-Order AI for eCommerce Book (Kelly)

____

Work with Fashion Equipped
If you're ready to take your fashion business to the next level, connect with Elizabeth and the team at Fashion Equipped. Whether you're looking for Consulting, Mentorship, or Online Learning, we're here to support your journey.

Interested in Consulting?
Check out Elizabeth's iconic Fashion Business Growth Roadmap Consulting and Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here: The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting

Interested in exploring Sponsorship of the Fashion Business Mindset Podcast?

We’re inviting expressions of interest from brands, retailers and businesses aligned with our values who want to collaborate with us in bringing even more value to our fashion community.

📩 To learn more, reach out via email at [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @‌fashionbusinessmindset

Connect with us:
Instagram: @‌fashionequipped
Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindset
Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped
Website: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped

Let's do this together,

Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I’m joined by two amazing women who are redefining the way we see ourselves and the world around us — Taryn Brumfitt and Dr Zali Yager, Co-Directors of The Embrace Collective.

Taryn is an Australian of the Year, award-winning filmmaker, bestselling author, and founder of the global Body Image Movement.

Zali is an Adjunct Associate Professor and internationally recognised body image researcher who’s published more than 60 academic papers and dedicated her career to creating a safer body-image environment for the next generation.

Together, they’ve built a movement that’s reached over 200 million people worldwide — blending storytelling, education, and evidence-based change.

During this chat, we dive into:

• Taryn’s journey — from her viral “before-and-after” photo to the global Embrace films and the founding of The Embrace Collective.

• How Zali’s research and lived experience have combined to turn academic insights into real-world impact.

• The growing body-image challenges we’re facing— from social media and AI filters to the pressures of visibility in today’s digital world.

• The creation of the Feel Good Fashion Program — a new initiative empowering brands to build inclusive, body-safe environments for their teams and customers.

• Practical ways fashion leaders can take action — from representation and team training to rethinking the change-room and retail experience.

And so much more!

Both Taryn and Zali are doing powerful, transformative work that’s changing the conversation on body image and helping brands and communities create lasting impact.

This is an inspiring conversation where we explore how we can all be part of a more inclusive and empowered fashion future.

_____

You can connect with Taryn & Zali at:

The Embrace Collective

Taryn Instagram

Dr Zali Yager Instagram

Where to watch the Embrace film

Please reach out to Taryn or Zali if you would like to know more about the Feel Good Fashion Program.

__________

Join us at The Global Sourcing Expo.

Use code VIP for complimentary seminar tickets.

Elizabeth’s seminar is on Tuesday, 18th Nov 3 pm - 4 pm.

Book here:

Global Sourcing Seminars | Global Sourcing Expo

Speakers:

Elizabeth Formosa – Founder, Fashion Equipped
A strategic advisor with decades of experience in brand growth, sourcing, and business strategy, Elizabeth has guided hundreds of brands across fashion, retail, and wholesale. As host of the Fashion Business Mindset podcast and leader of global sourcing trips, she brings a sharp lens on scaling strategies that balance creativity with commercial success.

Kelly Slessor – Digital Marketing Strategist & AI Expert
Founder of The Ecommerce Tribe and Tribe Gen AI, Kelly has worked with global names such as Westfield, Woolworths, and V&W, as well as more than 1,000 small and medium businesses. With 20+ years of experience in digital strategy and AI adoption, she is a frequent media commentator and was recently recognised as a Global Retail Expert 2025.

Christina Exie – Designer, Entrepreneur & Co-Founder of Stacked Studio
After winning Project Runway Australia, Christina worked across global brands including Sneakerboy and Esprit before launching her own successful athleisure brand, EXIE. Today, as co-founder of Stacked Studio, she helps brands bring designs to market with technical expertise in activewear and lifestyle apparel, and deep knowledge of sourcing and product development.

Interested in exploring Sponsorship of the Fashion Business Mindset Podcast?

We’re inviting expressions of interest from brands, retailers and businesses aligned with our values who want to collaborate with us in bringing even more value to our fashion community.

📩 To learn more, reach out via email at [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @‌fashionbusinessmindset

Work with Fashion Equipped
If you're ready to take your fashion business to the next level, connect with Elizabeth and the team at Fashion Equipped. Whether you're looking for Consulting, Mentorship, or Online Learning, we're here to support your journey.

Interested in Consulting?
Check out Elizabeth's iconic Fashion Business Growth Roadmap Consulting and Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here: The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting

Connect with us:
Instagram: @‌fashionequipped
Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindset
Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped
Website: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped

Let's do this together,

Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Event Alert!
I’ll be leading an Industry Panel at the Global Sourcing Expo in Melbourne on 18 November, alongside Kelly Slessor and Christina Exie.

Our topic is Growth, eCommerce and AI in Fashion.

This conversation brings together three industry leaders in a discussion spanning sourcing, go-to-market execution, scaling through eCommerce, and the rapid adoption of AI.

We’ll blend my strategic growth and leadership expertise with Kelly’s digital and AI insights, and Christina’s product, sourcing, and brand development experience.

Whether you’re an established brand or a startup, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies and inspiration to scale and strengthen your business in today’s fast-moving market.

We hope you can join us, and of course take time to elevate your sourcing strategy at the Global Sourcing Expo, Melbourne, from 18–20 November.

My guest on this episode is:

Bianca Gregg, a leading figure among a new generation of brand leaders.

As Co-Founder and strategist, Bianca has grown Del Rainbow from a boutique studio into a globally recognised fashion and logistics agency with teams across key global markets.

Known for her unparalleled industry knowledge, intuitive approach, magnetic drive, and considered leadership, Bianca brings precision and unwavering commitment to every partnership.

Her approach to wholesale is deeply holistic, balancing creative insight with commercial clarity. Bianca champions direct, transparent communication between brand and buyer, creating lasting value across every touchpoint.

From emerging designers to established names, Bianca works closely with each client to craft a brand experience that’s both true to its ethos and tailored for global reach.

Under her guidance, Del Rainbow has played a pivotal role in elevating emerging brands to international recognition, offering strategic direction that builds lasting global presence and long term brand value.

With dedicated teams in New York, London, and Byron Bay, Del Rainbow continues to shape the growth of some of the most influential and forward-moving brands in the market today.

During my chat with Bianca, we discussed…

• Building conscious brands and why Del Rainbow has become recognised globally for championing values-led, considered fashion businesses and creating international connections.

• The wholesale landscape, including how to authentically connect brands, retailers, and customers, and the importance of service, storytelling, and strong relationships.

• Supply chain strategy, critical paths, and production planning — and how brands can adapt quickly to changing timelines and market demands.

• US tariffs and trade complexities, including fluctuating tariff rates, the impact on brand margins, and strategies to mitigate costs through sourcing diversification, correct HS code classifications, and renegotiating pricing structures.

• Holding stock in the US and forecasting demand, including how to align with US buying calendars, work with 3PLs, and adopt rolling 3–6 month forecasts rather than long-term commitments.

• Advice for brands today — from collaboration and adaptability to range planning, global connectivity, and staying true to values while navigating a complex global market.

You can connect with Bianca at:

HOME - Del Rainbow

del.rainbow (@del.rainbow)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bianca-gregg-64bb3761/?originalSubdomain=au

__________

Join us at The Global Sourcing Expo.

Use code VIP for complimentary seminar tickets.

Elizabeth’s seminar is on Tuesday, 18th Nov 3 pm - 4 pm.

Book here:

Global Sourcing Seminars | Global Sourcing Expo

Speakers:

Elizabeth Formosa – Founder, Fashion Equipped
A strategic advisor with decades of experience in brand growth, sourcing, and business strategy, Elizabeth has guided hundreds of brands across fashion, retail, and wholesale. As host of the Fashion Business Mindset podcast and leader of global sourcing trips, she brings a sharp lens on scaling strategies that balance creativity with commercial success.

Kelly Slessor – Digital Marketing Strategist & AI Expert
Founder of The Ecommerce Tribe and Tribe Gen AI, Kelly has worked with global names such as Westfield, Woolworths, and V&W, as well as more than 1,000 small and medium businesses. With 20+ years of experience in digital strategy and AI adoption, she is a frequent media commentator and was recently recognised as a Global Retail Expert 2025.

Christina Exie – Designer, Entrepreneur & Co-Founder of Stacked Studio
After winning Project Runway Australia, Christina worked across global brands including Sneakerboy and Esprit before launching her own successful athleisure brand, EXIE. Today, as co-founder of Stacked Studio, she helps brands bring designs to market with technical expertise in activewear and lifestyle apparel, and deep knowledge of sourcing and product development.

Interested in exploring Sponsorship of the Fashion Business Mindset Podcast?

We’re inviting expressions of interest from brands, retailers and businesses aligned with our values who want to collaborate with us in bringing even more value to our fashion community.

📩 To learn more, reach out via email at [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @‌fashionbusinessmindset

Work with Fashion Equipped
If you're ready to take your fashion business to the next level, connect with Elizabeth and the team at Fashion Equipped. Whether you're looking for Consulting, Mentorship, or Online Learning, we're here to support your journey.

Interested in Consulting?
Check out Elizabeth's iconic Fashion Business Growth Roadmap Consulting and Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here: The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting

Connect with us:
Instagram: @‌fashionequipped
Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindset
Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped
Website: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped

Let's do this together,

Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

My guest in this episode is Anna Brennan, General Manager, Stylerunner.

Anna Brennan is a highly accomplished retail leader with over 20 years of extensive experience across retail, merchandising, marketing, digital, and store operations. As General Manager of Stylerunner since May 2023, Anna is driving the brand's ambitious expansion strategy across Australia and New Zealand.

Anna brings proven expertise in leading large-scale retail businesses and delivering exceptional commercial outcomes. Her impressive career spans some of fashion retail's most prestigious companies, including, The Iconic, Harvey Nichols, Glue Store. The Just Group and David Jones.

Recognised for outstanding leadership in building and mentoring high-performing teams, Anna fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous development. She is a strong advocate for talent growth, coaching individuals to reach their full potential and drive organisational success.

Vision for Stylerunner

Under Anna's leadership, Stylerunner is positioned as the go-to destination for women in lifestyle and activewear—where fashion meets performance. She is spearheading the brand's bold vision to lead the market with a premium, fashion-first experience that empowers women to look and feel their best, wherever life takes them.

"We are so excited to bring our vision to life and create spaces that celebrate our female community," says Anna of Stylerunner's expansion strategy.

Anna is based in the Greater Sydney Area and continues to drive innovation in the rapidly growing Australian athleisure market, which is worth $4.2B and shows strong momentum in the premium segment.

During our chat, Anna and I discussed:

• Doubling Stylerunner’s store numbers in just over two years

• Growing footwear to 55% of the product mix, with a major pivot into womens lifestyle sneakers

• The re-emergence of performance footwear with fashion-forward colours and styles

• How Anna and her team curate brands that resonate with female consumers across all ages

• Blending activewear with lifestyle pieces for a true “studio to street” experience

• Building community through national run clubs, engaging both serious runners and stylish beginners

• The role of own brand development and partnerships with global labels

• Balancing data, creativity, and team culture to fuel business growth

And so much more!

Visit Stylerunner here.

Connect with Anna on Linkedin here.

________________

Interested in exploring Sponsorship of the Fashion Business Mindset Podcast?

We’re inviting expressions of interest from brands, retailers and businesses aligned with our values who want to collaborate with us in bringing even more value to our fashion community.

📩 To learn more, reach out via email at [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @‌fashionbusinessmindset

Work with Fashion Equipped
If you're ready to take your fashion business to the next level, connect with Elizabeth and the team at Fashion Equipped. Whether you're looking for Consulting, Mentorship, or Online Learning, we're here to support your journey.

Interested in Consulting?
Check out Elizabeth's iconic Fashion Business Growth Roadmap Consulting and Book a Clarity Call with Elizabeth here: The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap | Fashion Equipped — Fashion Equipped: Fashion Business Consulting

Connect with us:
Instagram: @‌fashionequipped
Podcast Insta: @‌fashionbusinessmindset
Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped
Website: Fashion Business Consulting and Mentoring | Fashion Equipped

Let's do this together,

Let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to Fashion Business Mindset! In this solo episode, I’m diving into our July edition of The Monthly Edit — your go-to for curated industry insights, strategic prompts, and practical tools to help fashion founders and leaders thrive.

As we enter a brand new financial year, this is your opportunity to hit reset, refocus your energy, and reignite your strategy for the months ahead. Whether you're a founder, scaling with a team, or leading across multiple channels — this episode is for you.

Here’s what we cover:

• A 3-step Mid-Year Reset Framework

• FY26 Planning Prompts across Financials, Marketing, People, Product & Ops

• The latest industry news — including a leadership shift at Vogue

• Podcast highlights with Patricia Lynch on sourcing and innovation

• Events to explore this season

• What we’re reading and listening to

• How to access exclusive subscriber-only content and consulting offers

🔗 Prefer to read? The blog version of this episode is linked here.
📩 Want exclusive tools and insights? Jump on our email list here— it's free and designed for founders like you.
🚀 Ready for your next growth phase? Book your Clarity Call and explore our Fashion Business Growth Roadmap.

Let’s make FY26 your most strategic and successful year yet.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.