In celebration of Women’s Month, GLAMOUR speaks to three fashion designers who prove success is fostered by a supportive community. Once recipients of the Woman of the Year and GLAMOUR's Most GLAMOUROUS awards, these women are owning their individuality and walking boldly.
Glamour: What have you learned is the biggest contributor to RUFF TUNG’s success?
Bridgette: You are only as good as your team. So, surround yourself with competent people. I can’t do what my highly experienced studio team can do, and we each bring something different to the design table.
G: What is your design ethos?
B: RUFF TUNG is designed by women for women. I am passionate about being size inclusive. RUFF TUNG is 100% inspired by the women we dress.
G: Describe the women you design for.
B: If you love my design aesthetic, values and sparkle then regardless of your age, size or other - you are exactly the type of woman I design for.
G: Throughout your journey, how have the women around you shown true support and strength?
B: I am surrounded by 55 local brands on my THERAPY RUFF TUNG online
platform. This means 55 women in design who mentor, share, advise and understand the reality of retail and that being your own boss is tough.
G: Was there a pivotal moment in your career that helped you realise you were doing what you were destined for?
B: It was becoming fully size-inclusive — from the fashion week runway to in- store. I want my clients to relate to my brand where they see themselves being fully represented.
G: What has been a career highlight for you this far?
B: Winning the Most GLAMOURous Award a few years back alongside 10 other incredible women.
G: What message do you have for women as we celebrate National Women’s Day?
B:I want to empower women to celebrate themselves and each other. To raise the bar higher for the next generation of female-driven fashion — fostering empowerment, inclusivity and a strong sense of community
G: What advice would you give to aspiring fashion designers and business owners?
B: Know your market; my brand doesn’t exist without the women I dress. Live and breath your brand values and surround yourself with a solid support structure!
G: What are you looking forward to most for your brand?
B: Our favourite season — Spring/Summer 25/26.
G: Do you have a most-treasured design?
B: My latest GirlieTUX. There’s nothing more sexy than a soft tailored tuxedo — in sequins, of course! The shimmering allure of sequins infuses each piece with a sense of joy and celebration. Sequins are our favourite in colour and design.
G: Which celebrity would you love to see wearing your designs?
B: I see every woman as a celebrity. When the light turns on in her eyes and she really starts to see herself... We call it the butterfly effect and that’s my sweet spot! But a celeb whose style I am obsessed with is Cate Blanchett.
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