Bianca Spender, Founder and Creative Director, Bianca Spender

Poetic energy balanced by precise structure defines the essence of the Bianca Spender brand. Known for her enduring, empowering, and impressive designs, Bianca Spender has been a leading Australian designer for over a decade. As the daughter of a fashion matriarch, Bianca has grown up in the industry, now forging her own path as a womenswear designer of integrity. Her clothes embody quiet refinement, with an optimistic spirit evident in the unique color palette and discreet, alluring details. This sophistication reveals itself through the precise and imaginative construction of each piece. Bianca’s motivation stems from her desire to create clothes with rhythm—understated yet elevated, beautiful yet modern. Her designs tell a story, perfectly fitted with longevity in mind. In this interview with The Taste Maker Chronicles, we delve into the mind of Bianca Spender, exploring her journey, inspirations, and what it takes to create timeless fashion.

What is one fashion trend you absolutely love, even if it goes in and out of style?

I’ve never really been one to dress to the trends of the time! Can you believe that throughout the minimalism and grunge era of the ‘90’s I never owned a pair of jeans! My natural inclination is towards a modern romantic way of dressing. I gravitate to fluid silhouettes that are elongated and effortlessly draped. For me, tailoring with a feminine edge will never go out of style.

What is one item in your wardrobe that you cherish the most, and what’s the story behind it?

Can I have two? I deeply cherish a watch that was my grandfathers that I wear every day and an apple-shaped necklace my mum gifted me for a significant birthday. I don’t wear a lot of jewellery, but these two pieces will always be with me.

Who is your all-time favourite fashion icon, and how have they influenced your style and design?

I admire so many women and their style. How women wear clothes and the attitude this instils is always a source of joy! I could be inspired by a women walking on the street or sitting on the train. For me and the way I design and dress, I find artistic and stylistic movements throughout history an ongoing source of inspiration.

Are there any figures outside the fashion industry who inspire your work and ethos? How do they influence you?

Dance and the performing arts have always been a huge source of inspiration for me. Movement is so deeply connected to the body – the way fabric can dance around limbs as they shift and the unintentional drapes and falls from movement to movement. The body, particularly the female form is at the core of my designs.

As Australian fashion royalty, how did you navigate the balance between setting trends and reflecting the lifestyle aspirations of your audience?

I always want women to feel inspired when they put on one of my designs. They are made to be worn and lived in to the fullest, whether it be for a special occasion or in their everyday life. The woman is at the core of each collection. I love to dive into who she is, where is she going and how do I want to make her feel.

Can you share a memorable moment from your time as a designer that has significantly shaped your understanding of the fashion industry?

My memories of the fashion industry began at such a young age. I grew up with my siblings helping in mum’s business every school holidays, doing anything and everything! From counting buttons to filing paperwork. This instilled a deep understanding of the hands behind the clothes and the craftsmanship and consideration that goes into each piece. This has been something I have always carried with me throughout my own business and is reflected throughout all that we do at Bianca Spender. From making locally in Australia, deeply connecting with the intimate group of family-run businesses who make each piece, through to the sustainability elements that are all deeply considered at every step of the design and making process.

Reflecting on your journey as a global designer, what have been some of the most significant milestones that stand out as defining for you?

Being a part of the Woolmark Prize and representing Australian fashion on a global scale was an important moment for me. Last year we celebrated 15-years in business and marked this moment with an intimate runway that truly showcased my design handwriting. I was so proud to celebrate this journey and the evolution of Bianca Spender over the past 15-years.

What’s a piece of advice you would give to young entrepreneurs aspiring to carve their niche in the fashion industry?

Experiment and be playful. Have fun through your creative expression and lead with vision and consciousness. The early years are the time to define your voice through fashion while remaining open to creative evolution.

How does your personal style influence the designs at Bianca Spender? Are there particular elements of your own wardrobe or fashion preferences that consistently appear in your collections?

My signature aesthetic leans towards languid drape, fluid tailoring and a rich juxtaposition between femininity and sculpture. My style and my design handwriting go hand-in-hand, and these themes recur throughout each range.

What has been the most surprising or unexpected lesson you’ve learned in the world of the fashion industry?

I feel like I learn something new every day! What I love about small business is that you work across every department and no job is too small or too big. 

And finally – which upcoming fashion trends are you excited about and will incorporate into your personal wardrobe?

I have been drawn to the elements of sheerness that I have seen on recent runways. The idea of concealment and intrigue is really interesting to me. I am looking forward to wearing delicate lace pieces, paired back with solid tailoring.