DITL: Jane, Head Designer at Bohemian Traders

It’s a job many only dream about. Meet Jane, Head Designer at one of Australia’s most loved labels, Bohemian Traders. From early morning, coffee-fuelled planning sessions to afternoons immersed in prints and palettes, Jane’s world is anything but ordinary. With a love for East London’s music scene and a wardrobe that mixes sporty layers with boho flair, she’s the kind of designer who makes you want to raid both her closet and her mood boards.

Come along as we step into Jane’s world.

Thanks for participating in a DITL Jane! To start, could you please tell us a bit about yourself and your role at Bohemian Traders?

I'm Jane, a mother of two crazy boys, a lover of music, art and food. I am currently working at Bohemian Traders in the Design Team, where I've been for just over 2 years now since re-loctaing from Sydney to the Central Coast and loving it.

What does a typical day as the Head Designer of Bohemian Traders look like?

It always looks different. No day is the same which I love, the team is generally lead by a "critical path" juggling four seasons and many collections and capsules in between. I spend the start of my day planning and preparing as well as catching up with the team. We are then usually working through artworks, illustrations & technical packs most of the day.

What is your current favourite work outfit vibe?

It’s winter so definitely sporty layering. I love wearing my stripe Ponte track pants from Bohemian Traders with a chunky knit and some loafers.

What’s usually playing in the background while you work — music, podcasts, silence?

Music! Jungle & Ezra Collective atm. Currently loving UK modern jazz groups. I spent some years working in East London and love the art and music scene there.

What’s the first step of your design process?

Inspirations and boards - lots of images to evoke a feeling and mood.

Is this initial spark your favourite part or is there something else within the design process that excites you the most?

I think I get most excited when the collection is in the studio and tangible so we can play with the merch and edit.

You’ve worked with some iconic Aussie labels before Bohemian Traders—how have those experiences shaped your career as a designer? Is there something you learnt early on that’s stayed with you ever since?

I’ve been in the industry for a while now, so the lessons have been too many to count. I would say maybe most important is not to take the stress on and into your body, it’s really worth meditating on the fact that there is always a solution to problems. Secondly, team work makes the dream work. Having a good to lean on and bounce off is paramount to success.

What piece of advice can you give to someone looking to break into the fashion industry?

Get your foot in the door with work experience and prove yourself.

How would you describe the Bohemian Traders woman in 3 words?

Confident, unique and thoughtful.

And finally, let’s hit some rapid-fire questions:

Usual wake up time: 6am (have young kids)

Snooze button count: Cannot snooze!

Tea, coffee or matcha: A million times over coffee.