Perri Cutten, a renowned Australian fashion designer, has passed away at the age of 73. The Austin Group, the owners of her brand, confirmed the news in a statement expressing profound sadness over her loss. They honoured her legacy, stating that Cutten was an iconic presence in Australian fashion, known for her timeless elegance and sophistication.
Established in 1981, her brand began after she transitioned from graphic design studies at Swinburne University to the fashion world. Initially working for local brands such as Geoff Bade and Thomas Wardle, Cutten saw a gap in the market for stylish clothing tailored for women entering the workforce. Her designs resonated with the modern Australian woman, demonstrating understanding and purpose.
Cutten’s dedication to her craft earned her prestigious recognition, including the Woolmark Prize in 1991. Her philosophy centred around high-quality materials and designs that flatter, focusing on what her customers truly wanted rather than fleeting fashion trends. She previously noted that the brand’s success was rooted in “discipline,” strategically choosing to avoid the distractions of rapidly changing fashion fads.
At her peak, Cutten and her business partner, Michael Gannon, operated numerous boutiques and concessions in major department stores such as Myer and David Jones. By 2011, she celebrated the brand’s most successful year, showcasing a range of over a dozen shops.
Cutten’s influence extended beyond her business; she received an honorary doctorate from Swinburne University’s Faculty of Design in 1998, acknowledging her contributions to the fashion industry. After a semi-retirement in her later years, she chose to live in Flinders on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, yet remained tied to her brand, which currently has seven stores across Australia.
Her passing marks a significant loss in the Australian fashion community, reflecting on her visionary work that shaped many women’s wardrobes with grace and integrity.