Launch of STAGE111
Western Australia has entered a new era for fashion with the launch of STAGE111, a platform created to unite the industry and provide fashion creatives with the support they need to thrive. This includes emerging designers, artists and independent fashion businesses.
STAGE111 aims to replace competition with collaboration, rebuild long-absent commercial pathways, and give Western Australia’s homegrown talent the stage—and the visibility—it deserves.
While WA has long produced exceptional creative talent, many designers have struggled to access the commercial networks, industry resources and coordinated support required to build sustainable, globally competitive brands. STAGE111 was formed to change that. Its mission is to create an ecosystem where designers can grow, innovate and see a long-term future for themselves in Western Australia.
STAGE111 is focussing on four key pillars: Education & Mentoring, Trade & Investment, Events & Cultural Tourism, and Fashion for Purpose. Th initiative champions sustainability, diversity and inclusion. By focussing on these pillars, the organisation plans to give emerging designers the tools, skills and commercial opportunities they have historically lacked.
Bridget Hudson, Fashion and Style Director of STAGE111, said the platform arrives at a long-awaited moment for the State.
“WA has always been known for its wild west spirit – not because of distance, but because of its bold creativity. It’s time for our fashion industry to have a platform that matches that energy. STAGE111 gives designers real pathways, real support and the visibility they deserve. “
STAGE111, Director Wendy Bateson, said the initiative arrives at a critical time for the State’s creative economy.
“We have remarkable talent in Western Australia, but talent alone is not enough. Designers need access to education, business support and commercial networks. STAGE111 provides a clear and practical way for designers to build sustainable careers here in WA. This is about creating long-erm industry growth.”
Bryan Smith, founder of Blank Space, one of WA’s emerging designers, and the Founding Creative Director of STAGE111, said the platform will redefine what is possible for the next generation.
“For young designers, breaking into this industry can feel impossible. STAGE111 offers genuine support and real opportunities. It builds a community where creativity is encouraged and where designers like myself can contribute meaningfully. Being involved in the research and consultation behind STAGE111 has been incredibly affirming—it gives me confidence that we can build a commercially successful fashion future in WA.”
He said WA’s geographic position offers unique opportunities: “I’m also a firm believer that WA designers should continue looking north to our Asia–Pacific neighbours to grow and scale. We share 60% of our timezone with some of the world’s fastest growing markets, and the opportunity this presents is extraordinary. I’m particularly passionate about our Trade and Investment pillar—we’ve examined global market insights, explored regional opportunities, and developed hands-on selling strategies that can genuinely open doors for WA talent. This focus is critical for building a commercially successful fashion future in Western Australia.”
STAGE111 officially launched last week with a runway showcase at Moana Hall, presented by one of WA’s most celebrated small-business success stories — Willie Creek Pearls.
With more than three decades of championing Western Australian design, craftsmanship and innovation, Willie Creek Pearls shares STAGE111’s vision of elevating WA fashion talent and building a stronger creative industry for the State.
The film screening and launch event included a lineup of leading WA fashion brands, including Zhivago, Mara Collective, Boheme Luxe, ACO, Empire Rose, Kirrikin, Dee Black, Rosetta Resort and One Fell Swoop.
The launch coincided with the opening of Perth Style Lab, STAGE111’s new retail space championing local talent, featuring designers from the runway and along with other WA creatives. The store is proudly celebrating Pride and highlighting WA’s creative diversity.
STAGE111’s long-term goal is to build the foundations that will support WA designers to grow into national and international markets.
See more: STAGE111
ALL Images: Stefan Gosatti
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