Our Story

I am passionate about slow clothing.
Quality, natural fabrics that last a lifetime.
The craftsmanship of a well cut pattern.
The beauty of a garment that looks just as good on the inside as the outside.
Unexpected details.

All these elements take time to execute. They cultivate small luxuries that indulge the wearer. I work with a small but exceptional team of craftspeople who excel at what they do in an industry that is at risk of losing the skills of yesteryear; the art of tailoring, draping, cutting and sewing. 

I design clothes that are individual and timeless.
I believe in making clothes that can be collected and worn for years to come. Clothing made with great care;  employing ethical and environmentally sound practices.

My greatest inspiration comes from the past.
I love to explore Australian and international Vintage Stores, Fairs and Markets sourcing inspiration. I find things are rarely, crafted as well as garments used to be. I collect for design and technique. I love the sense of history, “the story” attached to second hand goods.

I am a collector.
My country upbringing has instilled in me a respect for resourcefulness.  I believe everything is of use and has potential for reuse. I often rummage through the studio bins pulling out bits of fabric that can one day be crafted into something new.

I reinvent the past for the future.
Over the years I have accumulated a collection of vintage textiles that I return to at the start of each season. I love the idea of reinterpreting these designs – showcasing them to create a fresh and current look. Japanese textiles are particular favourites.  Many are traditional – often a century or two old – yet they have a timeless grace.

I love colour.
Australian design is all about ease of wear, care and colour.
I aspire to make pieces that can be lived in.
Pieces that are uniquely Australian.

- Brigid McLaughlin 2013

 

1989-1991
BACHELOR OF ARTS MAJORING IN FINE ART THE UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY

1992-1994
THE NATIONAL ART SCHOOL GRADUATION WITH DISTINCTION
THE NATIONAL ART SCHOOL

FINALIST IN THE INTERNATIONAL SMIRNOFF AWARD

THE AWARD LEADS TO IMMEDIATE EMPLOYMENT WITH CHARLIE BROWN FOR THE NEXT FIVE YEARS AS DESIGNER OF CHARLIE BROWN AND LILI

1994-1999
CHARLIE BROWN AND LILI DESIGNER THE DISCOVERY GROUP

2000
ISSEY MIYAKE LONDON WHOLESALE AND RETAIL SALES

2001-2003
HEAD OF DESIGN DAVID LAWRENCE

2004-2006
HEAD OF DESIGN LISA HO

2006
THE LAUNCH OF THE FIRST BRIGID McLAUGHLIN COLLECTION SUMMER 2006

2009
THE LAUNCH OF THE FIRST PORCELAIN BY BRIGID McLAUGHLIN COLLECTION SUMMER 2009

2010
THE COMPANY RELOCATES TO HABERFIELD SYDNEY AUSTRALIA

2011
JANUARY WE OPEN THE DOORS TO OUR FIRST RETAIL SPACE ATTACHED TO OUR STUDIO IN HABERFIELD

2013
THE LAUNCH OF OUR FIRST E-COMMERCE STORE