Q: Can you tell us a little about your early career days with Esprit in California.
A: I learned how to work.
Q: What influence did this have on your design career?
A: Never give up, strive for the best, be inventive and the first.
Q: You are fantastic with knitwear as part of all your ranges. Where did that passion and know-how come from?
A: It fits everybody.
Q: Charlie Brown, the brand, is famous for pattern and colour combos that are so different and unique. What inspires you to get it so right?
A: Who said I get it right?
Q: What influences did fashion people, the likes of Alan Green and Gordon Smith, have on your success?
A: A lot.
Q: What are the key things you look for when putting the ranges together?
A: What the customer will want.
Q: How many ranges do you work on per year?
A: Six ranges per year.
Q: As a busy wife and mum, how do you stretch yourself to do everything? And with both you and your husband Danny in the business, how do you make that work so well.
A: A lot of great people and organisation.
Q: Are any of your children showing interest in fashion design or related businesses?
A: My youngest, Francesca. And David is counting the money.
Q: You so obviously love what you do, what drives you?
A: My children and the thought of retirement.
Q: What is your favourite piece from next summer’s collection?
A: There are so many I cannot choose.
Q: Can we have a peek at what to expect from the Summer Charlie Brown Collection?
A: Colour. Colour. Colour… Things that fit everybody.
Q: What is your personal dress style?
A: It depends on the occasion, the day, and what I did the night before.
Q: What is your favourite travel destination in the world? And why?
A: San Francisco, I get to see my family.
Q: When you travel, what pieces go with you every time?
A: Lots of shoes.
Q: Is there a museum with a collection of your pieces being kept for the future?
A: Not yet.
DI: My website is getting a lot of hits and I just know everyone will love this chat with you, one of my favourite Australian designers. Thank you.
