Josephine Women presents a collection of articles and interviews, engaging in meaningful conversations with women who infuse love and inspiration into our lives through their work, creativity, motherhood, business, and passions. Our sincere hope is that each article and interview will ignite the same love and inspiration in you that these remarkable women bring to us.
To commence this new series, there's no better choice than to feature the woman who has consistently been my main source of inspiration. She's the one who has provided guidance throughout my life, offering unconditional love and unwavering support as I embarked on the journey to establish my own business - my beloved mother, Kerry.
Q: What do you do for a living?
Kerry: I serve as a Deputy Principal at a local school.
Q: How do you prioritise and manage your various commitments and tasks in a hectic schedule?
Kerry: I maintain a high level of organisation and adhere to set timeframes, striving to complete tasks before moving on to the next. Creating lists and checking off completed tasks is my preferred approach.
Q: You had your kids at a young age; how did you juggle raising three young kids, marriage, and advancing in your career?
Kerry: It was a common practice back then. Being organised and methodical helped me manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously. I began with part-time work, keeping my foot in the door until my children were ready for school, at which point I focused more on my career.
Q: Who is your biggest inspiration, and why?
Kerry: My grandmother instilled a strong work ethic in me, while my aunts taught me about positivity.
Brene Brown has been inspirational in sharing her research on vulnerability and its impact on our self-perception and relationships.
Q: How would you describe your personal style and how has it evolved over the years?
Kerry: My style centres on knowing my body shape and selecting styles that complement it. It's eclectic and driven by what catches my eye and brings me joy. Most of my style is about transitioning between work and home. As I've grown older, I've become more thoughtful in my purchases, favouring timeless pieces over fleeting trends.
Q: Do you have a favourite fashion-related memory from your childhood or teenage years?
Kerry: I fondly remember wearing Amco Peaches jeans in the late '70s. They made me feel fantastic.
Q: What's your go-to outfit when you want to feel confident and stylish?
Kerry: I turn to a navy blue COS dress with a simple tailored shape and some waist detail, along with an uneven hemline. It never fails to draw compliments.
Q: Can you tell us about any fashion items or accessories that hold sentimental value for you?
Kerry: A ring designed by a local jeweller, inspired by a kina shell, which my husband bought for me, holds great sentimental value.
Q: Could you describe a fashion trend or item you'd like to see make a comeback?
Kerry: I'd like to see more fabric designs, especially from the '60s, make a return. Definitely nothing from the '80s!
Q: What is your most treasured possession and why?
Kerry: A bronze sculpture of a female we acquired in Melbourne in the early 2000s holds a special place in my heart. If pets count as possessions, my two beloved dogs are also treasured.
Q: If you could offer advice to inspire young women, what would it be?
Kerry: While it may sound cliché, my advice is to stay true to yourself. Follow your dreams and ideas with determination, not letting others discourage you. Be kind to yourself.
Q: Over the years, your style has evolved. Any advice you can offer other women about their fashion journey?
Kerry: Know what you like and what suits you, and avoid chasing trends. Invest in pieces you genuinely love and will continue to cherish over the years. Rediscover and reinvent items in your wardrobe to keep things interesting.
Q: How do you use fashion as a means of self-expression and empowerment in your daily life?
Kerry: I constantly seek ways to express my individuality through my hair, experimenting with different hairstyles to feel like a new person. I enjoy being distinct from others, whether through my hair, shoes, colors, or other elements.
Q: What motivates you to keep pushing boundaries and evolving in your fashion choices and career?
Kerry: I strive not to become stagnant and dull, constantly seeking ways to look my best. As I approach semi-retirement, I'm excited about the many new opportunities that await, as well as the chance to stay relevant and give back.
Q: What's your favourite quote or mantra that keeps you inspired and motivated?
Kerry: I live by the serenity prayer: "Have the serenity to accept the things you cannot change, courage to change the things you can, and wisdom to know the difference."
Q: In your opinion, how can fashion be a force for positive change and social awareness?
Kerry: Fashion can be a force for positive change and awareness by empowering women, especially those facing adversity, around the world.
Q: How do you stay true to your own fashion vision while navigating the ever-changing trends and pressures of the fashion industry?
Kerry: Stay true to your vision by knowing what suits you, avoiding impulsive decisions, maintaining positive self-talk, and projecting confidence, even if you need to "fake it till you make it." It's all about perception.
