Early ambitions
Kirby’s mum played an influential role in her interest in fashion, but it was a careers day at primary school that crystalised Kirby’s future goals.
“I originally wanted to go as a hairdresser, but my mum didn’t have anything on hand to bring the look to life,” she said.
“My older sister had just started learning fashion design at high school, so she suggested I go as a fashion designer instead. And I guess the rest is history!”
Her passion for fashion was also inspired by her high school textiles program, which led her to study at RMIT.
Kirby graduated from RMIT in 2012 with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Fashion Technology) - now the Bachelor of Fashion (Design) - after completing the Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Technology in 2011.
A single focus for fashion
Fashion is a famously tough industry to get a toehold in, but Kirby was highly motivated to break in.
“I honestly live and breathe it – it’s all I could ever see myself doing,” she explained.
“I knew it would be competitive, but it never felt like work because I loved it so much. I’m drawn to the creativity, the self-expression and the opportunity to dress people for life’s many moments and help them feel their best.”
Her chance came about in the second year of her RMIT degree. Kirby was required to do work experience and decided to ask her part-time employer, the Country Road Group.
“Thankfully, they said yes and that opportunity led to ongoing freelance work. I ended up starting full-time with that team the day I graduated,” she said.
Climbing up the fashion rungs
After graduation, Kirby began working full-time at Mimco, which is owned by the Country Road Group, as a design assistant in the footwear and leathergoods departments. From there she moved to Trenery, also owned by the Country Road Group, as a design assistant in accessories. By 2015 she was a fully-fledged designer at Country Road and by 2019, a design manager.
In 2023, Kirby was elevated to Head of Design in accessories at Country Road and then promoted to Head of Design, apparel and accessories, at Witchery.
She said her go-the-extra-mile attitude made her stand out when applying for promotions.
“I think my willingness to go above and beyond, whether it’s staying back to help or jumping in to assist in meetings, shows that I’m not only prepared to do the work but also eager to gain experience across different areas,” she said.
“I also believe in putting yourself forward for opportunities, even if you don’t feel completely ready or it’s not the exact role you envisioned. Gaining experience and perspective is so important; you never know what doors it might open or what future opportunities it could lead to.”
