Celebrating Women in Business, we chat to TUESDAY founder Biddie Cooksley. The fashion industry has always called to her as growing up with ragtraders in her family, Biddie described fashion as her first love, which drew her in and creatively inspired her.
After initially ignoring her passion and enrolling in Law School, it was in her final year of University that Biddie decided to follow her heart instead. She moved up to Auckland to pursue her career in fashion, starting humbly at the front desk of a clothing company.
“Although I spent all my secondary and tertiary school years working part-time in the family clothing business getting hands-on knowledge across every department, after deviating at university I was suddenly in my early twenties with no 'formal training’ to certify that industry experience,” explained Biddie. “So I made the move to Auckland and just worked my way from the ground up.”
TUESDAY was started eight years ago in 2015, and since then, it has grown into an established brand with a clear motive to create beautifully designed pieces - for everyday wear. TUESDAY champions not saving what we feel best in purely for special occasions, but rather wearing great dresses all the time.
Her success as a businesswoman has allowed her to showcase her designs at New Zealand Fashion Week and open a flagship store on New Zealand’s most iconic fashion strip, Ponsonby Road. Biddie is also an avid supporter and partner with New Zealand charitable trust Breast Cancer Cure.
“It feels great to give back, and the team at BCC continues to inspire me, " said Biddie.
“It’s incredibly impactful work and really does make a difference to funding research for a cure.”
Biddie highlighted that one of her most significant accomplishments has been employing and empowering other women within the fashion industry, primarily through providing flexible hours for her team. Her brand values include creating high-end pieces that will last for seasons and promoting confidence among women.
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