In this month’s Future Makers series, we’re thrilled to spotlight the co-founders of State of Escape, Brigitte MacGowan (Creative Director) and Desley Maidment (CEO). From their shared vision of creating luxurious, sustainable handbags, they’ve built a globally recognised Australian brand known for its minimalist designs and innovative approach to fashion.
Read on to learn about their journey from concept to creation, their commitment to sustainability, and the leadership strategies that have helped them carve out a unique place in the fashion industry. Their story is a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and resilience.
1. What was your first start in the industry and can you share your career journey? Was there a pivotal moment in your career that led you or pushed you to where you are today?
Brigitte: I was fortunate to work for graphic design and advertising agencies for the first 15 years of my career in both creative and account management roles. It was across a range of industries from fashion, corporate, education, broadcast and lifestyle which really honed my understating and power of great design and ‘brand’. This accumulated knowledge gave me the confidence to design a product, knowing that I had the skills to create a beautiful world in which our creations could live and thrive. The final pivotal moment was my introduction to Desley, and with her strong finance and business management skills we became two parts of the whole.
Desley: After several years in London in the Finance space I found an opportunity to work in Fashion Recruitment back in Sydney where I spent almost a decade working with many local fashion companies both small and large supporting their own growth initiatives via sourcing talented individuals. Working in this capacity in the industry I was privy to many of the challenges and opportunities and changing ways of building a fashion company out of Australia.
It gave me incredible insight and understanding across design, development, sourcing, production, retail/wholesale and marketing which has supported our ongoing approach and considerations as a business today. 2 key factors that led to the development of the State of Escape business came after having taken a break to start a family and increasingly desiring to re-enter the workforce. Additionally, a fortuitous introduction to Brigitte by a mutual friend. Brigitte was living a parallel life to me and with a similar mindset and drive. Her design/brand management background and my fashion/finance background provided the right mix for us to take the leap and begin our journey.
2. Are there any mentors or influential figures who played a key role in your leadership style?
Brigitte: There have been many, with diverse personalities and management styles. Some that created space for excellent work through positive encouragement and mentorship, and others who lead with sheer will. The most influential I’ve experienced create culture through empathy, positivity, and collaboration. It’s always a work in progress, constantly evaluating and listening to your team. If we all feel valued, and are working towards the same goal, then the magic can happen.
Desley: I have been fortunate to have a variety of mentors from previous role across various industries who have all influenced and shaped me in positive, diverse ways; sharing their wisdom, advice and important measures for achieving your goals and working as part of a team, as well as the importance of showing strength in leadership and surrounding yourself with equally dynamic and driven individuals. Having multiple industry influences has continued to drive me to look at things differently and be open to how a business approaches change, develops teams and builds brands.
3. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced on your pathway, and how did you overcome it?
Brigitte: Sustainability has always been at the heart of our brand, last year proudly achieving B Corp status. The challenge is how we create a quality, evergreen product which is made in Australia in an industry that constantly demands newness and cheaper pricing. The immediate solution is just to say no, with the long-term goal of building a brand that puts all these values at the forefront of what we say and do.
Desley: One of our greatest challenges has been continuing to be able to navigate our ever-changing marketplace. Having a business that is export oriented and growing, has seen us navigate several changing ways of operating in markets with new tech, new structures and new channels to market. Being able to partner with key groups ensuring we stay informed and make the most appropriate decisions for our brand specifically has been key to managing this and ensuring we can thrive in a fast moving, exciting, yet challenging global market.
4. Our industry is 76% female, however this is not the case at executive level. Do you believe the Australian fashion industry has evolved over the years, particularly in its support for women leaders? What can we all do to help change this statistic?
Brigitte: I do believe this will continue to increase if we lead by example. We have met and had the pleasure of working with many female executives in the Australian fashion industry, sharing knowledge and with the genuine desire for each other’s success. Embracing this sentiment is the key to change.
Desley: Yes, I do believe there has been significant progress in our industry, and believe all industry individuals who are passionate, like us, about this statistic will continue to support more women in leadership roles. I have faith and belief in the experienced and talented people who are supporting and driving this industry. Over the years we have seen many more women build and grow incredible fashion businesses, something Australia can be incredibly proud of and should inspire the generations to come.
5. What's one piece of advice you’d share with someone aiming to follow in your footsteps?
Brigitte: Differentiate. In a world of ‘sameness’ create your own vision.
Desley: If you can, find a partner/founder with whom you can have mutual trust, so you can build, drive, grow and share the load, the laughs and the wins. I know I couldn’t have done it alone.
Brigitte and Desley’s journey with State of Escape is a testament to the power of collaboration, resilience, and innovation. Their dedication to sustainability, leadership, and creativity continues to inspire the Australian fashion industry and beyond, paving the way for future generations of changemakers.
Keep an eye out to see who will be featured as next month’s Future Maker.
Find out more about State of Escape.