The Monthly Edit | March 2025
5 Minute ReadMarch is wrapping up, and as we look ahead to Q2, the fashion industry continues to evolve at pace.
In this edition of The Monthly Edit, we’re diving into the trends, tools, and insights shaping fashion retail in 2025 — from AI debates and government policy to inclusive casting calls, Australian Fashion Week and brand-building strategies.
Whether you’re leading a scaling brand or launching something new, there’s something here to support your next move.
Author: Elizabeth Formosa | 29 March 25
Industry News & Events
Retail Roundup: Q1 Insights for Smarter Moves in Q2
We recently wrapped up a Retail Roundup, and the key message is clear: 2025 is all about agility, creativity, and connection.
While total retail sales showed a modest YoY increase (up 3.8% in January), consumer caution remains high—especially among Millennials and Gen Z affected by cost-of-living pressures. Mid-market brands are feeling the pinch, while luxury and budget retailers hold steady.
So what does this mean for you?
It’s time to focus on value-driven offers, brand visibility, and community-led growth.
Rising digital marketing costs and changing algorithms mean brands must diversify their acquisition strategies and lean into what truly builds trust: founder-led content, loyalty programs, UGC, and real-time engagement.
Top opportunities this quarter include:
✔ Building your owned audience (email, SMS, loyalty)
✔ Experimenting with "shoppertainment" (live shopping, behind-the-scenes content)
✔ Hosting in-person activations like pop-ups or trunk shows
✔ Strengthening omnichannel strategies with community-first experiences
👉 We break down the Federal Budget implications next.
Federal Budget 2025: What It Means for Retailers & Brands
This year’s Federal Budget delivered modest cost-of-living relief, with measures like subsidised childcare, energy bill support, and reduced student debt expected to help stabilise consumer confidence—a positive signal for the retail sector.
However, both the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and National Retail Association (NRA) have voiced concern over the lack of direct business support, especially for small businesses navigating rising operational costs and tightening margins. For many retailers and fashion brands, the absence of clear incentives for digital transformation, innovation, and investment is a missed opportunity.
Key Takeaways for Retailers & Brands:
✔️ Minor tax relief from 2026 – limited short-term benefit
✔️ $60 million allocated to SMB digital & cybersecurity capability
✔️ Energy bill relief extended to households and small businesses
✔️ Ongoing challenges competing with global low-cost operators
✔️ No confirmation on the instant asset write-off
✔️ $17.1 billion invested in freight infrastructure to strengthen long-term supply chains
As we look ahead to Q2, now is the time to:
✔️ Double down on customer retention and loyalty strategies
✔️ Strengthen your digital foundations (website, email, automation, cybersecurity)
✔️ Prepare for an unpredictable economic climate with leaner inventory planning and smart marketing strategies
Read the full statement from the Australian Retailers Association here.
BUSINESS OPTIMISATION INSIGHTS
AI SPOTLIGHT: The Rise (and Risk) of AI-Generated Fashion Photography
AI-generated photography and virtual model campaigns are gaining traction—especially among fast fashion giants. But with that rise comes serious questions about creativity, representation, and job displacement.
In a recent Business of Fashion article, H&M revealed plans to start using AI-generated models for some of its product imagery. The company positions it as a way to reflect broader body types and increase efficiency—but critics warn of the potential impact on real-life models, photographers, stylists, and creatives.
While AI can be a valuable tool for moodboarding, concept testing, and digital efficiencies, there’s a growing concern that overuse risks losing the human storytelling and connection that make fashion powerful.
Things for brands to consider:
✔️ Use AI ethically – Enhance creative workflows, don’t replace them entirely.
✔️ Be transparent – If you're using AI-generated images, say so.
✔️ Support your creative network – Stay collaborative. Fashion is built on community.
✔️ Balance cost-saving with brand integrity – What message are you sending?
👉 We’ll keep the conversation going across our socials. Have you experimented with AI imagery yet? Let us know what you think.
PODCAST FEATURE: BUILDING A BRAND WITH PURPOSE — JACKLYN RIVERA OF COMMONRY
We’re kicking off Season 6 of the Fashion Business Mindset podcast with a truly inspiring conversation featuring Jacklyn Rivera, Creative Director at Commonry.
This was Jacklyn’s first-ever podcast appearance, and she delivered deep insights into inclusive fashion, purpose-led leadership, and the realities of building a brand that walks its talk.
Key Takeaways from the Episode:
1. Inclusive Fashion is Non-Negotiable
Jack shares how Commonry’s commitment to true size inclusion (with expansion to size 24 coming in April) is not just about range—it’s about fit, representation, and reshaping industry expectations. She opens up about the varied dynamics of the development process and the myths around plus-size costing more to produce.
2. Representation Must Be Intentional
From casting challenges to showcasing diversity in age, size, and culture, Jacklyn talks about what is required to do inclusion right—including their exciting casting call recently launched, created in partnership with industry leaders like Chelsea Bonner and Tash Sefton alongside brand and inclusivity advocate Jelena Dockic. See the news below!
3. Build a Brand With Heart and a Team With Purpose
The Commonry team is more than just a staff—they’re advocates, stylists, and community connectors. Jack reflects on building a culture where every customer interaction is meaningful, and where feedback fuels design decisions.
4. Leadership is an Evolving Practice
Jack shares candidly about balancing motherhood, leadership, and creativity. She also reflects on the importance of mentorship and executive coaching, and why she’s considering re-engaging with her leadership coach to keep growing.
5. Sustainability and Conscious Practices Still Matter
While navigating inclusivity and growth, Commonry stays focused on natural fabrics, waste reduction, and partnerships like Good Earth Cotton—proving that you can scale without compromising your values.
🎙 This episode is packed with real talk, practical insights, and inspiration for anyone building a brand that has representation, purpose, and impact as its core values.
Commonry’s National Casting Call Has Officially Launched!
Commonry is on the search for real, diverse women to become the face of their Spring/Summer 2025 campaign — and it could be you.
The Prize Package Includes:
1.Become the face of Commonry’s Spring Summer Campaign which includes a Commonry photo shoot featured on the Commonry website and social channels.
2. Three year contract with Icon Management Pty Ltd and a portfolio shoot up to the value of $2,000.
3. $2,000 Commonry wardrobe.
4. Attendance at the Commonry SS25 Event including flights, accommodation and a Commonry outfit with a total value of up to $1,000.
5. Feature page in The Everywoman magazine.
You’ll also be mentored by some of the most respected names in the industry, including:
• Tash Sefton
• Jess Rae King
• Chelsea Bonner
• Jelena Dokic
• Jack Rivera
📝 To enter, head to commonry.com.au to find out more and complete the entry form.
📅 Entries close Wednesday 17 April 2025 — good luck!
Join the Mailing List to receive the “Monthly Edit” direct to your inbox.
Plus access subscriber-only free industry reports
Image: AFC Australian Fashion Week 2025
EVENT ALERT!
On the Horizon: Fashion Week 2025 – Start Planning Now!
📍 Sydney is hosting the official Australian Fashion Week from 12–16 May 2025 at Carriageworks, led by the Australian Fashion Council and proudly supported by Destination NSW.
Whether you're looking to attend as a guest, explore collaboration opportunities, or simply stay across the national conversation in fashion — being present at Fashion Week helps position your brand on the inside track.
In recent news, Splash Sydney Show has partnered with the Australian Fashion Council’s (AFC) Australian Fashion Week (AFW), to help showcase local designers on the global stage.
On May 14 and 15, the collaborative project ‘AFW presents the Atelier powered by Splash’ will showcase contemporary fashion brands at Carriageworks, alongside the runway shows.
This will follow Splash Sydney Show’s event at Walsh Bay on May 12 and 13, highlighting lifestyle, resort, and swimwear brands.
Splash Sydney Show and AFW aim to deliver a guest list of international delegates, strengthen both resources, and appeal to buyers, the media, and the industry.
Designers in the Splash Sydney lineup include Liandra, Spell, Pared Eyewear, and Sol Sana, while Atelier has yet to reveal its designer partners.
Podcasts & Books to Elevate Your Business
Known for her no-nonsense approach, Mel dives into the psychology of success, confidence, and leadership. Whether you’re navigating self-doubt, building resilience, or levelling up in business, her episodes are packed with insight and actionable strategies.
“The 4-Hour Workweek” by Tim Ferriss
This game-changing bestseller explores how to escape the hustle trap by designing a business that works for you. Ferriss offers insights into automation, outsourcing, time management, and building freedom into your business model — ideal for founders looking to scale smarter in 2025.
SEASON 6 OF @FASHIONBUSINESSMINDSET
We’re back with another powerful season, bringing you insightful conversations with industry thought leaders, Innovators, and Change-Makers.
Tap into Our Continued Partnership with WGSN!
We’re thrilled to embark on our sixth year of partnership with WGSN, the #1 global trend forecasting and analytics platform. At Fashion Equipped, we are passionate about empowering startups and growing businesses by providing access to this cutting-edge resource. Combined with our tailored programs, mentoring, and consulting services, these invaluable tools give our clients a competitive edge, helping them not just launch but scale their fashion businesses successfully.
In today's fast-paced and data-driven fashion industry, staying ahead of trends is critical. WGSN delivers global insights and future trends that can transform your business, ensuring you thrive in this ever-evolving landscape.
This is a unique and invaluable opportunity to elevate your business and position yourself as a leading brand in the industry.
Contact Elizabeth directly at elizabeth@fashionequipped.com.au to discover how WGSN can give your business an immediate advantage.
Image: WGSN
Work With Us in 2025
Are you ready to elevate your fashion business this year?
Whether you’re launching, scaling, or evolving your brand, our signature consulting offer – The Fashion Business Growth Roadmap – is designed to give you the structure, strategy, and support you need to move forward with confidence.
From brand elevation and financial optimisation to product strategy, marketing and scaling, we tailor every step to your unique goals.
✅ Gain clarity on your next steps
✅ Create a business roadmap aligned with your values and vision
✅ Receive high-touch coaching, expert guidance with measurable outcomes
Enquire now and let’s make 2025 your most strategic and successful year yet.
