From Garage to Global: How One Mum Built a Business That Empowers Women

When I started RARR Designs back in 2013, I never imagined it would grow from a humble garage in Endeavour Hills to a globally recognised brand. My journey began simply: I was teaching at a local dance studio, and my students were asking for fun, bold outfits that could keep up with pole classes and performances. At the same time, I was working as a sportswear designer for Adidas, so the idea of creating functional, stylish, and body-positive clothing started to take shape.

What began as a side hustle — sewing a few pairs of booty shorts for students — quickly evolved. The market for bold, inclusive, Aussie-made polewear was almost nonexistent, and I realised there was a gap waiting to be filled. Over the years, that little side project became a full-time business, and the dream grew: creating garments that make women feel confident, comfortable, and empowered no matter their size, shape, or background.

Balancing Mum Life and Entrepreneurship

Running your own business as a mum isn’t easy — trust me, I’ve tried every trick in the book! Juggling school runs, family life, and building a business can feel impossible at times. Add a global pandemic into the mix, and suddenly, your “work-life balance” is a constant juggling act.

But here’s the secret: being a mum actually makes you a better entrepreneur. You learn to prioritise, make decisions quickly, and multitask like a ninja. Plus, having your own business gives you flexibility — whether it’s picking up your kids from school or attending their assembly. You’re in control of your schedule, and that freedom is priceless.

Building a Brand That Truly Cares

From the beginning, RARR Designs was about more than just clothes. It was about creating a community where women could feel seen, supported, and celebrated. Our designs are tested on real bodies, not mannequins or models with “perfect” proportions. We listen to feedback from our customers, constantly tweaking fabrics, fits, and designs to make sure everyone feels amazing.

Inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword for us — it’s part of our DNA. Over 50% of our products are proudly made in Australia, we offer custom sizing, and our models are real women of all shapes, sizes, colours, and cultures. We even source talent locally, supporting local pole and dance studios across Melbourne’s southeast. Every time a customer tells us she feels confident and beautiful in a RARR outfit, it reminds us why we do what we do.

Milestones, Challenges, and Celebrations

Running a business is full of highs and lows. One of our proudest moments was our 10th birthday shoot, where we hosted a free photoshoot for customers in our Hallam factory. Seeing women of all shapes and sizes celebrating themselves in RARR pieces brought me to tears. Another milestone has been expanding globally — taking our Aussie brand to the USA has been both thrilling and humbling.

Of course, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. COVID, production hurdles, and the constant hustle have tested us in ways we never imagined. But each challenge has strengthened our business and made us more determined to empower women everywhere.

Advice for Other Aussie Mums

If you’re a mum thinking about starting your own business, here’s my advice:

• Start small, dream big. You don’t need a factory or an online empire overnight. Just start where you are, with what you have.
  
  

• Listen to your community. Your customers will tell you what works and what doesn’t. Their feedback is gold.
  
  

• Embrace flexibility. Life as a mum is unpredictable, so build a business that allows you to adapt.
  
  

• Celebrate the wins. Whether it’s your first sale or being recognised in awards, take a moment to enjoy it.
  
  

Above all, remember why you started. For me, it’s about helping women feel incredible in their own skin, creating opportunities for other mums, and building something that my family can be proud of.

Starting a business is tough. But for any mum with a dream, it is also the most rewarding, empowering, and life-changing journey you can take.