From 2010 to 2013, I worked as a creative consultant and international fashion buyer for Chiodo Menswear in Melbourne and Sydney. The iconic Melbourne basement store had a ‘cult’ following, offering its signature line of crisp, neutral shirting with Chiodo’s distinctive details, alongside ‘monster’ brands like Comme des Garçons, Junya Watanabe, Superfine, and Norse Projects. 

The store’s atmosphere was a clever and quirky mix of carefully curated fashion with whimsical elements, eclectic music artworks and UK artist, David Shrigley’s greeting cards and books.

My time at Chiodo included regular buying trips to Milan, Paris, and Tokyo Fashion Weeks, which were other-worldly experiences, with invaluable exposure to the fashion industry on a global scale.

In 2011, I played a key role in the launch of Chiodo Sydney in Potts Point. I assisted with the interior styling, art selection, and the overall creative direction of the new store. Unfortunately, Sydney locals didn’t embrace the Chiodo experience in Challis Avenue, perhaps viewing it as a Melbourne institution rather than a Sydney fashion staple.