I honestly cannot believe I am writing this.
On Saturday 15 November, at the beautiful Fullerton Hotel, Philosophy Australia was named the 2025 Fashion Champion at the Australian Women's Small Business Champion Awards. And the part that still has me completely shook … we won it for the second year in a row.
When they called our name, I felt this incredible wave of disbelief, pride and pure gratitude wash over me (followed immediately by a moment of panic as I walked to the stage because I had absolutely not prepared a speech).
As a designer, I have spent decades listening to women, styling them, hearing their insecurities, celebrating their confidence and creating clothes that help them feel like the very best version of themselves. To have that vision and purpose recognised on a national stage, again, fills me with so much joy.
But for me, this award is not just about the designs or the collections. It is about our philosophies. It is about our people.
Our makers in Sydney who pour their heart into every garment.
Our beautiful boutiques who champion each new collection and therefore champion us every single day.
Our loyal customers who support and celebrate Australian made with genuine enthusiasm.
Our tiny but mighty in house team.
And the wider community who has believed in Philosophy from the beginning. This win belongs to every single person in this family.
A heartfelt thank you to Steve Loe, all sponsors and the entire Precedent and judging team for hosting such a wonderful ‘Oscars’ style event. Judging more than three thousand submissions across sixty two categories is no small feat. To be recognised among so many remarkable and deserving businesses feels both special and surreal.
Joining the 2025 alumni of Champion winners is an honour I will hold close. These are women shaping the cultural, social and economic story of our country. From acceptance speeches that made us laugh to those that brought tears, it was clear that every woman in the room had worked tirelessly for her dreams. If our collective wins inspire even one young woman to back herself, trust her voice and begin something of her own, then we have done something meaningful.
As we head into the remainder of this year and into 2026, we will continue to stand proudly for Australian made fashion. We will continue to show that life is fast but fashion does not have to be. And we will continue to champion what matters most … shopping small, supporting local and choosing Australian made; with clothing that is easy care, easy wear, wear anywhere, and designed just for you.
To the entire Philosophy family, thank you for coming along on this wild and beautiful journey with me.
As our celebratory gift, please enjoy 10% off site wide using code CHAMPION25
Virtual hugs
Ali xx
