Gold Coast label Dabek Designs is handmaking delicate pieces inspired by the past
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACINDA MULHOLLAND
WORDS BY MAGGIE ZHOU
Pulling the past into the present.
While other kids were learning their first words, Amy Dabek spent her days styling outfits. Since the age of two, the Gold Coast creative has leaned into her love of fashion. It wasn’t until the beginning of last year that she transformed her hobby into a fully-fledged business. Dabek Designs, aptly named after her last name, is the culmination of her love of slow fashion, sewing and vintage style.
On offer is a selection of limited tops and skirts, all handmade by Amy herself. Her pieces have been inspired by her fascination with the history and evolution of garments; you’ll find nods to the past through her use of lace, intricate button detailing and nostalgic silhouettes.
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Here, Amy takes us through her hopes and dreams for Dabek Designs, as well as the challenges she’s faced. Read on to hear more about this burgeoning Queensland-based label.
Tell us about you. What’s your fashion background?
I’m Amy and I am 23 years old. I started the brand at the start of 2022 and have been working on the business full-time for roughly six months. The brand focuses on meticulously made, natural fibre garments that are designed to be in your wardrobe for decades.
I always had a passion for fashion and have dressed myself [from] the moment I physically could (around age two). I always loved textiles and design classes at school and [they were some] of the only subjects I excelled in. A huge highlight of mine was leading a team in designing and making stage costumes for a prestigious national stage competition where we won best costume designs.
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These experiences reinforced my love for fashion and affirmed my creative abilities. They inspired me to pursue a career in the industry. Now, I pour my passion and expertise into my own brand, creating garments that weave stories and celebrate the artistry of fashion.
I also have a rich passion for fashion history. I love learning [about] how garment[s] ha[ve] evolved over time, the cultural influences behind different styles and the stories they tell. Understanding the rich heritage and significance of fashion has been a driving force in my pursuit of creating unique and meaningful designs.
In particular, the New Look collection introduced by Christian Dior in 1947 had a huge influence on my own personal style. This collection was also a game changer in the fashion world, particularly during the post-war era. It captured a romantic and ultra-feminine aesthetic that my brand is hugely inspired by today.
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How did the label get started? Talk us through the process and the challenges.
I initially started creating handmade corsets for myself and then my friends expressed interest in purchasing them from me. After a few sales, I created an Instagram account to showcase these garments, which received a lot of positive attention. This motivated me to launch my very first collection.
As I was juggling a full-time job, I knew that my newly founded brand demanded more time and dedication than I was able to give at the time to truly thrive. I was really determined to pursue it further as this is what I love, so I made the decision to leave my job and use my savings to support [myself]. Transitioning into this new chapter wasn’t immediate – it took several months to get things up and running smoothly.
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Something that I struggled with after quitting my full-time role was establishing a solid community and generating sufficient demand for my products. I sort of imagined the demand would be there instantly if I posted regularly enough. It wasn’t until I implemented influencer marketing that this really took off. As this is my first business I am still learning things as I go and figuring out how to navigate each challenge.
Now, I find myself… constantly striving to meet the demand. As every garment is meticulously handmade by me, each piece requires hours of work. As my business expands, I am currently looking to hire my first employee who will help me in the sewing process.
What were you trying to achieve from the project at the time? How has this evolved and what are you trying to communicate through the brand now?
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At the time I started my label, my main goal was to establish myself as a designer and create a brand that reflected my personal style. I wanted to offer feminine pieces that made people feel confident and empowered. As time has passed, my vision for the brand has evolved.
Now, I strive to communicate not only a sense of style and confidence but also a message of sustainability and conscious consumption. I want to promote slow fashion and encourage people to invest in well-crafted, timeless pieces that can be cherished for years to come.
How would you describe your label to someone who’s never seen it before?
My label embodies a whimsical and romantic style with a touch of softness. Each piece is carefully designed and crafted to evoke a sense of femininity and elegance. The garments often feature intricate details, delicate fabrics and unique silhouettes. It’s a blend of modern sophistication and vintage charm, creating a distinct aesthetic that stands out.
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What are you most proud of in your work on your label?
I am most proud of how I have learnt to source sustainable, natural fibre fabric… My most recent find was a stunning yellow Marc Jacobs deadstock fabric, which I used to create a limited-edition pyjama set known as the Lolita Set.
What do you wish you knew when you started?
One thing I wish I knew when I started is not to compare my journey to someone else’s. It’s easy to get caught up in comparing myself to other brands and feel like I’m falling behind. But I’m still learning that everyone’s path is unique and someone else’s success doesn’t diminish my own. It’s important to stay focused on my own progress and celebrate my own achievements, no matter how small they may seem.
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Who do you think is most exciting in Australian fashion right now?
I find the current shift towards vintage and secondhand pieces to be incredibly exciting. It’s inspiring to see people curating their own personal style by embracing unique, one-of-a-kind items. I love how this not only encourages sustainability but also allows everyone to express their individuality through fashion.
Go-to dinner party playlist?
My favourite band is The 1975 so 100 per cent them. Their music always seems to be enjoyed by most people and they have immaculate vibes. I’d also chuck in some chill jazz depending on the occasion.
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Who is in your wardrobe right now?
At the moment, my wardrobe is made up of a collection of new and vintage items that I love. I’ve been obsessed with Aje‘s designs lately and I recently bought a gorgeous sheer trench that I’ve been wearing extensively. I also own a few Simone Rocha accessories, which I’ve been loving. I hope to add a few more of her pieces to my wardrobe this year.
How can we buy one of your pieces?
I open orders once every week. Since everything is handmade to order, please allow up to seven days for your order to be shipped. If you want to stay updated on release dates and new collections, please follow my Instagram where I post updates regularly.
Keep up to date with Dabek Designs here.
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