Timeline
8 a.m.
Sketching over morning coffee
10 a.m.
Time for a yoga reset
1 p.m.
Enjoying a quiet afternoon at home
3 p.m.
Giving Molly a well-deserved cool down
7 p.m.
Celebrating our summer collections in the Hamptons
What originally drew you to fashion, and when did you realize you wanted to build your own brand?
Fashion has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I have an early memory of when I was 6, sitting on the floor playing with buttons and fabrics, and as I got older, I was constantly experimenting with my style, altering clothes, and admiring the work of designers who inspired me. Growing up in Sydney, where style was more casual and sportswear-driven, I was always the girl wearing archival vintage and statement dresses, arguably not always right for the occasion, but I stood out, and people would constantly stop me to ask, “Where are your looks from?” At 21, while studying design, I launched my first eBay store, which quickly grew into a little pop-up space in Bondi where I curated and resold pieces I loved. As the business and following grew, so did my desire to design independently and start my own label. That’s when Bronx Banco was born. Now, almost 20 years later, the same vision still guides the brand, creating pieces that empower women to feel confident and glamorous.
Bronx Banco has become such a recognizable luxury label. What do you think defines the brand’s identity today?
The brand has evolved quite a bit since its inception, but the essence of Bronx Banco has remained the same. From the beginning, I had a clear vision of the woman I was designing for, a global traveler with a full dynamic life who values being confident and glamorous. I wanted the brand to evoke that, and I’ve always focused on creating pieces that make women feel empowered and beautiful. It’s incredibly rewarding to know the brand has become so recognizable; it shows we’ve built a strong visual identity over time. When you remain consistent in what defines you as a brand, people begin to recognize it, connect with it, and become part of the journey alongside you. That kind of loyalty is incredibly special. Of course, we’re always evolving, but at the heart of everything we do remains the woman, the vision, and the values the brand was built upon.
How would you describe your personal aesthetic in three words?
Couture, coffee, yoga class.
What’s something you’re passionate about outside of fashion?
I’ve always had a deep passion for interior design. In fact, I spent my first three years at The Design Centre Enmore studying interior design before my teacher encouraged me to transfer to the Fashion Design Studio in Ultimo where I completed my fashion major—and thank God I did! I bought my first home when I was 22, and since then I’ve fallen in love with the process of renovating and designing properties. For me, it mirrors many of the same creative principles as designing a collection, storytelling, creating a mood, and evoking emotion. My most personal project has been my home in the Hamptons, which was inspired by my travels to Bali. On my first trip to Bali, I was mesmerized by the architecture, connection to nature, and the feeling of tranquility. Years later, after settling in New York City, I immediately found myself craving that feeling. I discovered a secluded piece of land in the Hamptons and committed three years to building a home that captured that spirit. I sourced authentic pieces from Indonesia, antique volcano-stone Buddha statues, handcrafted furnishings, large vintage vases, sculptures embellished with gemstones, and rare books all thoughtfully layered with contemporary design elements to create a retreat that feels immersive and soulful. A place away from the city to create and recharge. It has become one of the creative projects I’m most proud of. I’ve always been fascinated by the way a space can make you feel, and I approach designing a home much the same way I approach designing a collection. For me, both are about storytelling, creating an atmosphere, evoking emotion, and transporting people somewhere else. Beyond interiors, one of my other passions is horse riding. It gives me the same sense of freedom and escape that I find when traveling or spending time in nature.
How would you describe your Hamptons style versus your city style?
My New York style is polished and structured with darker tones, tailoring, and pieces that can take me from hours of meetings during the day to events at night. Whereas in the Hamptons, everything is a bit softer and easier. The colors are brighter, the silhouettes are more relaxed, and there’s a different kind of fun and freedom that influences the way I dress.
Are there certain places, people, or moments in the Hamptons that influence your designs?
Absolutely. I’m constantly inspired by the women in the Hamptons and the way they dress. There’s a confidence, creativity, and effortless glamour to their style. I love seeing how they style pieces, what they’re drawn to each season, and how they weave in their individuality. It’s the perfect creative backdrop as I design our Spring/Summer 2027 collection. I also grew up by the ocean in Bondi, so being near the water has always been a huge source of inspiration for me. Living in New York is incredibly energizing, but the Hamptons gives me the space to slow down, think, and create. Some of my best design ideas come while sitting by the beach with a sketchbook.
What’s something exciting you’re currently working on for Bronx Banco?
We’re continuing to evolve Bronx Banco beyond occasion wear and build a complete lifestyle world around the brand. This year, we’ve expanded into contemporary ready-to-wear, accessories, and handbags, and we’re excited to launch our first footwear collection for Spring/Summer 2027. We are also exploring the opening of our first retail store within the next year. It’s an incredibly exciting chapter for the brand, and I can’t wait to share what’s coming next.
Audrey Glass
