The Women Behind Styleware

Sunday, 8 March marks International Women’s Day — a moment to recognise the social, economic and cultural achievements of women around the world, and the ongoing work toward equality.

This year’s theme, Balance the Scales, calls attention to the importance of fairness, dignity and opportunity for women everywhere.

Within our own sphere, the theme feels especially meaningful — in the everyday work of building careers, families, creative paths and businesses.

So this year, we asked the women behind Styleware to reflect on the paths that brought them here.

From dentistry to design, architecture to operations, hairdressing to marketing — none of our careers followed a straight line.

What we found was that the pivots often matter just as much as the destination.

 

“If something keeps pulling at you, pay attention to it.”

— ARABELLA, FOUNDER

What did your career look like before Styleware — and what made you pivot?

Before Styleware, I trained and worked as a dentist for many years. It was structured and secure — but I didn’t feel a real sense of passion for it, and that mattered to me.

I’ve always been drawn to design and creating beautiful, functional spaces. Styleware began as a solution to something I couldn’t find — pieces that felt considered, not purely practical.

Over time I realised I wanted to build something of my own — to challenge myself creatively, grow a team, and create a business alongside a busy family life.

What’s one piece of advice you would give a woman considering a career shift?

If something keeps pulling at you, pay attention to it.

You don’t need perfect clarity — just enough conviction to take the next step. Most pivots unfold slowly through small decisions.

Back yourself before you feel completely ready.

 

Currently reading
Wild Dark Shore — Charlotte McConaghy

Coffee order
Almond cappuccino, extra hot

Sunday reset ritual
Clearing the kitchen bench completely

Inspiring woman
Sally Obermeder, SWIISH founder

Styleware pick
4 Piece Nesting Bowl Set — Sorbet
Perfect for everyday prep, family dinners and storing leftovers.

 

 

“You only regret the chances you don’t take.”

— DOT, OPERATIONS & STUDIO CO-ORDINATOR

What did your career look like before Styleware — and what made you pivot?

I trained and worked as an architect. While I loved the design side of the work, I realised I was most energised working within small teams and seeing ideas come to life quickly.

After spending time with a smaller brand, I knew I wanted to be part of something more hands-on and collaborative — where you can see the impact of your work every day.

What’s the best advice you’ve received from a woman that shaped your career?

“You only regret the chances you don’t take.”

Wise words from a colleague that stayed with me. Life is too short to overthink — and often the same opportunity doesn’t come around twice.

 

Currently reading
Wuthering Heights — Emily Brontë

Coffee order
Flat white

Sunday reset ritual
Pancake brunch is a must

Inspiring woman
Joanna Gaines

Styleware pick
Styleware Minis
The small-but-mighty containers that keep dressings, snacks and little extras organised.

 

 

“Finishing is a decision, not a feeling.”

— KARA, GRAPHIC DESIGN & BRAND

What’s something you’ve had to unlearn in your creative career?

I’ve had to unlearn waiting for permission or approval to call something finished.

Working in studios taught me high standards, but it also made “done” feel like something that had to be earned — and always slightly out of reach.

I’m learning that finishing is a decision. It doesn’t always arrive with confidence or clarity. Sometimes it arrives quietly as trust in your own judgement — and the choice to value momentum over perfection.

A book, piece of art or woman who continually inspires you?

I’m continually inspired by women who have transformed hardship into creativity and strength.

Women like Nina Simone, Maya Angelou, Frida Kahlo, Georgia O’Keeffe, Patti Smith and Jane Goodall. Each endured so much, yet chose to create.

What moves me most is their generosity. Despite what they carried, they gave the world music, language, art, science and advocacy.

There’s something extraordinary about women who turn lived experience into something that strengthens the rest of us.

 

Currently (re)reading
Just Kids — Patti Smith

Coffee order
Long mac

Sunday reset ritual
Sleep-ins, coffee, ocean swims and time with mum

Inspiring woman
Margarida Maia

Styleware pick
Between The Lines Tea Towel
A design-led kitchen staple that looks as good hanging up as it does in use.

 

 

“Confidence grew as I proved to myself I could do it.”

— CHELSEA, SOCIAL MEDIA

What did your career look like before Styleware — and what made you pivot?

I started my career in hairdressing. While I loved the artistry, ongoing shoulder strain meant I had to step away sooner than I expected.

From there I moved into retail, where I discovered my love for fashion, branding and marketing. That curiosity eventually led me into social media and marketing beyond fashion.

I quickly recognised a major gap in the market — small businesses with incredible products and services, but without the time or expertise to market themselves effectively.

What started as helping a few businesses soon evolved into my own marketing business, working across multiple industries from dermatology to kitchenware.

What gave you the confidence to back yourself in a new direction?

I wouldn’t say it necessarily started with confidence.

Most of my early clients came through word of mouth, which is something I never take for granted. Over time, confidence grew as I proved to myself — and my clients — that I could bring their ideas to life.

Social media moves quickly, and it’s easy to get caught up in trends. I’ve learned that the essence of each brand has to stay at the forefront while still finding creative ways to interpret those moments.

Currently listening
Style-ish Podcast

Coffee order
Latte with an extra shot

Sunday reset ritual
Morning walks & house reset

Inspiring woman
Emma Grede

Styleware pick
The Lunch Set
My go-to for workdays — perfectly sized for lunch and snacks on the go.

 

Here’s to the pivots, the perspective, and the women building things — in their own way, and in their own time.