We sat down with Donna to find out how a little girl with a sewing machine ended up creating her own Italian fashion label.

Donna, where did your love of fashion begin?

Oh, I was hooked from a very young age!

Mum used to take me along to fashion parties in people's homes, and I was her little helper. I spent weekends learning to sew with my aunty and eventually saved enough money to buy my very own sewing machine.

I loved being able to take a piece of fabric and turn it into something I could actually wear. I think that's where it all started.

Did you always want to be a fashion designer?

Well, I actually had three career choices. Fashion designer, landscaper or builder!

I loved creating beautiful things, although I wasn't sure anyone would take me seriously as a builder back then.

So I went with fashion and opened my first clothing store in the Hunter Valley at just 17. I then opened two children's clothing stores. I certainly didn't waste any time!

How did Donna Donna come about?

In 2009, I found myself divorced with four children and decided it was time to follow my dreams.

I launched Bling Creations, opened my stores and started travelling to Bali to create collections.

Over the years I visited different countries looking for the perfect place to manufacture my clothing.

Then in 2016, I discovered Italy, and that was it. I was in love!

The people, the lifestyle, the beautiful fabrics and, of course, the food!

Donna Donna was born, with a focus on gorgeous Italian linens, silks and cottons.

What do you love most about choosing clothes for Donna Donna?

I love discovering something a little different! Sometimes it's an unexpected colour, a beautiful fabric or a style that doesn't look particularly exciting on the hanger but is absolutely fabulous when you put it on.

I think about our customers all the time when I'm choosing. I know what they love, what works for different shapes and what they'll actually enjoy wearing. And after all these years, I still get a real thrill when I find something I know is going to be a winner!

What's been the biggest lesson you've learned along the way?

That things don't always go to plan, and sometimes that's a good thing!

I've had plenty of challenges over the years, and running your own business certainly keeps you on your toes. You have to be prepared to change direction, try new things and occasionally admit that something you thought was a fabulous idea really wasn't!

But I've always loved what I do, and I think that's what keeps me going.

What makes you most proud of Donna Donna?

I think it's seeing women genuinely enjoying the clothes we've created. When a customer puts something on, looks in the mirror and absolutely loves it, that's a wonderful feeling.

I've also met so many lovely people through the business over the years. Some of our customers have been shopping with us for such a long time that they feel more like friends.

And finally, any regrets about not becoming a builder?

Well, I haven't ruled it out yet! 😂

But after all these years, I'm still doing what I dreamed of doing as a little girl, and that's pretty special.

Donna xx