SHONA JOY  |  DESIGNER, Shona Thatcher 

After studying a BA of textile design, the Melbourne born Shona Joy initiated her experience in the Fashion Industry working as a Design Assistant for some of Australia’s most established designers.

The label began with a limited-edition capsule collection sold through Sydney’s Bondi and Paddington markets and even further afield at London’s famous Portobello road markets.

Fast-forward to 2016 and Shona Joy has been a prolific player in the Australian Fashion Industry for over a decade, with enduring support from over 150 stockists nationally including Australia’s David Jones, The Iconic, and now Revolve and Shop Bop in the USA.

Each collection features a showcase of exclusive prints, often designed exclusively through collaboration with artists, graphic designers and some of Australia’s most respected textile houses.

After proving a formidable force in the Australian Fashion Industry, 2016 has seen the beginnings of international expansion to the American and Asian markets.

How did you start your own Company? What jobs and experiences have led you to where you are today? 

I started the business 14 years ago. I first began selling at Spitalfields and Portobello markets in London, then at Bondi/Paddington whilst I picked up my first boutiques (The Corner Shop in Paddington/Cactus Jam in Melbourne/Capital L in Sydney and Orson and Blake) and grew from there. Prior to this I worked as a Design Assistant at Charlie Brown and later at Marcs.

What characteristics/skills do you look for in an Intern? 

Someone who is eager to learn all areas of the business. I believe you should gain experience in all fields as an intern so that you have a good understanding of what’s actually involved in running a brand from the ground up.

I am after good candidates that aren’t afraid to start from the bottom and work their way up, that are enthusiastic as well as professional. I always look back to interns we have had as first port of call when we are recruiting so it is really their opportunity to shine and make a good impression.

Which roles within your company attract a lot of job applications? 

Mainly the Design Room and Studio Assistant.

What advice would you give someone wanting to be a Fashion Designer? 

Work hard and work hard. You have to be as creative as you are a good business person which is hard to do all at once with a growing business.