About
The label
The Australian label Why Mary was established on the Gold Coast by owner and designer Janette Laver and is known for its artistic fusion of modern femininity, creative fabric selection with timeless style.
Signature designs include minimal silhouettes complimenting bold prints giving the brand a unique creative edge that appeals to fashion-lovers who dress with a difference.
Seasonal collections offer a range of versatile pieces to mix and match with a focus on comfortable glamour and sustainable longevity.
How it began
After completing a fashion design and manufacturing course at Gold Coast TAFE, Janette commenced a client based dress making business while raising her daughter, further developing her understanding of fabrics, pattern making and assembly. In 2014 Why Mary launched a small collection showcasing unique up-cycled designs followed by prudent seasonal collections pushing the boundaries against main stream mass produced fashion. The brand continues to grow with artistic and sustainable innovation, gaining support from both local and interstate stockists, industry organisations and customers.
Mission
Why Mary is committed to providing exclusive, well-made clothing with artistic style and sustainable innovation for conscientious women who like to make a statement through the way they dress.
Current ventures
The WHY MARY Designer Gallery opened in December 2019 up on Level 1 The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre, Gold Coast, Australia.
The Gallery is a unique space supporting local Gold Coast creatives and small business. The Gallery is a fusion of fashion designers, jewellery makers, artists and homeware creatives.
Stocked brands develop their product with care for the environment by way of producing small runs, custom made orders or by using recycled materials. Reduction of waste, slow fashion and sustainability are key elements flowing through this creative space.
WHY MARY Designer Gallery proudly merchandises LIVIN.org apparel to assist in their endeavours of suicide prevention and breaking the stigma of mental health.
View our Gallery video:-
https://www.youtube.com/@whymaryfashion
Current stockists
Why Mary Designer Gallery
Level 1 The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre, Gold Coast
"A fusion of local designers, artists, jewellery makers and creatives."
Treasure Store
Shop 32/33 The Wharf, 123 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba
Shop 3/2 Hastings St, Noosa Heads
"Exclusive designs, limited edition pieces, rare finds."
"Stride is an online marketplace showcasing ethical and sustainable fashion from Australia’s finest labels."
"Local Threads delivers new and stylish designs of mens and women apparel, sourced from Australian brands. With every purchase you're supporting a small Australian business owner, making a real difference to someones day."
"Shopindee is an online shopping destination bringing together a curated selection of the best independent brands and retailers from all around Australia."
Brand highlights
Brain Cancer Fundraiser Fashion Parade 2015
Ladies Day Magic Millions Race Day Fashion Parade 2015
Sunshine Coast Fashion Festival – October, 2016
Byron Bay International Fashion Festival – April, 2017
Oxford Fashion Studio Runway – Milan Fashion Week – Sept 2017
Sunshine Coast Fashion Festival – October 2017
Byron Bay International Fashion Festival - April 2018
Oxford Fashion Studio Runway - New York Fashion Week - Sept 2018
Brisbane Fashion Month - Resort Finale Runway - Oct 2022
Charitable contributions
Brain Cancer Research Foundation
White Ribbon Australia
Pink Ribbon Cup Race Day
Cancer Foundation
The Common Good
LIVIN.org