Her designs have been worn by everyone from Lisa Wilkinson to Meghan Markle, Rebel Wilson and Bethenny Frankel. Now, Karen Gee's eponymous label is coming to the QVB.

According to the designer, her decision to open in the iconic Queen Victoria Building (QVB) in Sydney reflects her commitment to providing women with an unforgettable brand experience. “Situated in the heart of Sydney’s bustling city centre, the QVB holds a special place in the city’s history and is renowned for its architectural beauty and cultural significance. By choosing this central location, we’re ensuring the brand is easily accessible to women from all walks of life, inviting them to immerse themselves in the world of Karen Gee.”

Furthermore, Karen Gee recognises the importance of creating a physical space that aligns seamlessly with her brand’s ethos and values. The decision to design a brand new space within the QVB allows Karen to curate an environment that embodies the elegance, sophistication and timeless appeal of her brand. Here, we sit down with Karen Gee herself to learn more about her brand’s story, ethos and why she believes her designs appeal to notable figures including Meghan, Duchess of Sussex.

Can you share with us the story behind your brand, Karen Gee? What inspired you to start your label?

I didn’t fit the mould of a typical fashion designer, I did not attend a prestigious design school or have a lineage in the fashion industry. Instead, a passion for fashion burned brightly within me. In 2013, I noticed a glaring gap in the fashion market — a lack of inclusivity in sizing and a death of accessible luxury brands. I believed that every woman deserved to feel confident and beautiful, regardless of their shape and size. With nothing but a fervent desire and relentless passion, I set out to fill this gap myself and founded my fashion label.

Karen Gee was built on the foundation of inclusivity and accessibility, and I wanted to celebrate this diversity through my label. One of the greatest challenges was mastering the art of pattern making (with the help of very experienced people) to accommodate different body shapes. Through trial and error, I honed my skills and developed innovative shaping techniques that would later become the hallmark of the brand.

When it came to the quality of my garments, I sourced the most exquisite fabrics and materials, ensuring that each piece was not only beautiful but also made to last. Word spread about my fashion label and women from all walks of life took notice. They were drawn not only to the stunning designs but also to the message of empowerment and inclusivity that the brand embodied.

Years passed, and what started as a small dream had blossomed into a global brand. Despite it all, I always remained true to my vision of creating a world where every woman felt confident and beautiful, one garment at a time.

Your designs are known for their elegance and timeless appeal. How would you describe the signature aesthetic of Karen Gee?

The Karen Gee aesthetic can be described as a harmonious blend of structured sophistication and timeless elegance. Each garment is meticulously crafted to celebrate the female form, enhancing its natural beauty in a conservative yet undeniably stunning manner.

At the heart of my designs lies a commitment to creating pieces that not only flatter but also empower women. The structured silhouettes serve as a canvas, accentuating curves and contours with precision and grace. From tailored blazers to fitted dresses, every garment is thoughtfully constructed to complement the body in all the right places.

Timelessness is another hallmark of the Karen Gee aesthetic, eschewing fleeting trends in favour of enduring style. Despite the conservative nature, a Karen Gee creation exudes a quiet allure thanks to luxurious fabrics and subtle placement of seams, which adds a touch of opulence to each garment, elevating them from simple staples to works of art.

Sustainability and ethical practices are increasingly important in the fashion industry. How does Karen Gee incorporate these values into its design and production processes?

Karen Gee is committed to sustainability, implementing various practices to minimise environmental impact while creating beautiful, long-lasting garments. One of the key ways Karen Gee promotes sustainability is through the creation of long-lasting, trans-seasonal fashion. By designing timeless pieces that transcend fleeting trends, we encourage women to invest in quality wardrobe staples that they can wear for many years to come. This approach not only reduces the need for constant consumption but also promotes a more conscious approach to fashion.

Your designs have been worn by notable figures, including members of the royal family. How do you approach designing for high-profile clients, and what do you believe draws them to your brand?

The brand’s elegant designs exude a sense of timeless sophistication that appeals to women seeking refined, yet modern attire. The precision with which each garment is crafted speaks to the brand’s dedication to quality and attention to detail. From impeccably tailored suits to flowing dresses, every piece in the collection exudes an air of effortless elegance that captivates discerning tastes. Furthermore, the brand's reputation for precision extends beyond design to encompass every aspect of the customer experience. From the moment a woman steps into the Karen Gee store or visits the brand’s website, she is greeted with impeccable service and attention to detail. Whether it is the personalised fittings or the seamless ordering process, every interaction with the brand reflects a commitment to excellence that leaves a lasting impression.

Visit Karen Gee on Level 1.