Between 2010-13, I worked as a creative consultant and international fashion buyer for Chiodo Menswear in Melbourne and Sydney.

The iconic store in a Melbourne basement, had a cult following, stocking its own label of crisp and neutral shirting with the Chiodo signature detail,  alongside Commes des Garçons. Junya Watanabe, Superfine and Norse Projects. Always paradoxical, the store was carefully edited and curated, with a touch of frivolity and wit. Eclectic music and quirky cards/books by Glaswegian visual artist, David Shrigley, were all part of the fun.

Regular buying trips to Milan, Paris and Tokyo Fashion Weeks’ over three years, were exciting and inspiring. It was otherworldly to experience the fashion industry at this level.

In 2011, we opened Chiodo Sydney in Potts Point, where I worked on the interior styling, art selection and overall creative direction.

Sadly, Sydney-siders did not embrace Chiodo in Challis Avenue, preferring to keep it is an essential stop on a visit to Melbourne.