Julie Goodwin shares her name with a reality TV cooking star, but her work couldn't be further away from the fast-paced and heated environment of the kitchen. This Julie Goodwin is a couturier, a sustainability lover, and a much-loved Melbourne fashion industry icon.
Julie has more than two decades of experience in the fashion industry, and she's established a strong reputation among every day Melbourne women and media personalities alike. Her regular clientele list includes the likes of Sigrid Thornton and Kate Atkinson, but Julie isn't one to boast; her true passion is dressing women from all walks of life, giving them the gift of feeling good in quality clothing.
Julie stepped away from her busy Albert Park studio for an hour to share a little about herself and what life is like as a modern-day atelier...
What are you working on at the moment?
Well it’s autumn in Melbourne so lots of black jackets! This is the time of year when women tend to review their wardrobes, so I have a studio full of suiting at the moment. I just finished a wedding gown for a (very) pregnant bride-to-be, and I’m working on a tailored shirt with appliqué lace for a same-sex-wedding too, so all sorts at the moment!
It’s only March and you’ve already dressed a handful of incredible women for national media events. What’s been a highlight of 2019 thus far?
Working with stylists to dress celebrities is always fun but honestly, the highlight is meeting and working with amazing women every day. I just love getting to know my clients; I have already met so many smart, funny, stylish women, and as you said, it’s only March!
Autumn has arrived in Melbourne. What’s an essential Autumn piece from your Muse collection that every woman can style in their own way?
I have had a lot of interest in coats this year, and I think if you go for a mid-weight option, you can layer it and get almost year-round mileage from it. A classic coat pulls together any look effortlessly.
Why are you so passionate about ethics and sustainability?
I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately and to me, with the way I grew up, it just seems like common sense. I don’t label myself as 'ethical' or 'sustainable' fashion as such, but I feel wasteful if I’m not getting value out of things. I want to be able to live in a world that treats people fairly, and treats our planet with respect. That applies to my life, not just my work.
What one couture piece should every woman own?
A bespoke piece is a luxury and whatever you choose it should be the one thing you are going to wear for a long time. For me, it’s a coat – a good coat in the right fabric can be an heirloom piece.
Why do you do what you do?
I do what I do for many reasons. When I am in my studio, I am my happiest. I am a maker. I love working with and for incredible women, I love interacting with other creatives, and I love being able to have an idea and just make it happen.
What was the very first couture garment you owned yourself? Was it something you bought or made?
I made myself a wool flannel grey pinstripe suit. I still have the jacket, and wear it! Pinstripe was my signature look for a while (my friends will remember this), and I still love a good stripe.
Do you listen to music when you’re working, or work in silence?
I have the radio on Triple J and lately, I have been bingeing on podcasts as well. Wardrobe Crisis is my favourite.
What’s the strangest thing in your studio?
A black metal crate. It’s for my dog when he can’t stand to be away from me. He’s a chewer so it’s the cage or nothing!
What’s next for you?
More of the same. I’m in a sweet spot right now, I'm planning a photo shoot with some of my clients in their favourite Julie Goodwin Couture pieces, I cant wait!
To view Julie's work or book a fitting at her Albert Park studio, head to juliegoodwincouture.com.au and as always, shop local and think sustainably with your wardrobe.
The Fashion Advocate x
