5 minutes with Annie McLary

1. What did you study at RMIT and what attracted you to that program? 

Bachelor of Fashion Design and Technology

I became aware that RMIT’s programs were internationally recognised and that the Bachelor of Fashion Design and Technology was a creative and hands-on degree which would provide me with the necessary skills to gain employment within the fashion industry in Australia or elsewhere in the world. 

2. What is your business all about? 

Feminine silhouettes invoking a mood of freedom and elegance, days of grace’s pieces are inherently beautiful with a sense of being understated. Utilising small runs in limited batches, the distinctive pieces are created with exquisite detail and care with the intention of a lifetime of wearing and being loved.

days of grace is an ethically conscious, slow fashion and socially responsible brand based in Melbourne. 

3. Where do you see your business in 10 years’ time?

I am hoping that it will remain a slow fashion brand but will have expanded to employ and train people in the fashion industry, similar to a social enterprise.  

4. How has studying at RMIT prepared you to run your business? 

RMIT provided me with a range of conceptual, practical and creative skills which I have utilised in my business including design and pattern-making. 

5. What advice would you have offered yourself when you first started your business? 

To be aware that there will be challenges in starting a small socially conscious business including navigating through manufacturing in Australia. It was important to be to support the manufacturing industry in Australia but I did not realise that I would encounter difficulties before finding a local manufacturer who was able to work within a made-to-order business model. 

6. Where do you find inspiration for your designs? 

I am inspired by nature, architecture and art.