YOU ARE THE OCCASION

Faye Browne, Creative Director
@fayebrownemottofashions

At Motto, we don't believe in saving your best for "someday." A Tuesday coffee run, a work call, picking up the kids – you are the occasion, every time. For over 40 years, we've been dressing Australian women in bold, confident style that doesn't wait for permission or a special event.

Motto isn't just a clothing brand – it's a community and a style movement built on the idea that you deserve to feel your best in the everyday. So wear the good sh*t. Wear it now. There's no better moment than this one.

What are you saving it for??

Wear Your Good Sh*t

Just wear the good stuff.

Pool’s not gonna clean itself

“Mum” isn’t a dress code.

Why wait to wear the good sh*t

Get your good sh*t out

Every day's special occasion

You are the occasion.

You are the occasion!

Discover The Good Sh*t

Behind the Scenes

Our Story

Motto was founded in Melbourne in the mid-1980s by fashion visionaries Faye and John Browne, who set out to empower Australian women through bold, confident style. Over four decades, that vision grew from a single boutique into a movement – shaped by milestones, evolutions, and cultural moments, and carried forward by the loyal Motto family who've been with us every step of the way.

Step inside 40 years of Motto with a short film that brings our journey to life. From archive footage and old boutique photos to the laughter of our live streams and the energy of our community, this is our story told in the way it was lived – authentic, fun and unapologetically real. Narrated by Faye and Lauren, the film captures the moments that shaped Motto and the women who’ve made it all possible.

Our most cherished time of day is our 4pm live streams on our social platforms. We absolutely love connecting with women like you. These half hour sessions serve as our daily ritual, allowing us to engage in girl talk and foster our growing community.

1980s – Bold Beginnings

In 1985, Faye and John Browne launched Motto in Melbourne. With fearless tailoring and standout details, Motto quickly became part of the power-dressing moment. Features in Vogue and Dolly confirmed the brand’s arrival as a new voice for women’s style and confidence.

1990s – Local Favourite

Motto grew its boutique network across Melbourne, becoming known for playful prints, relaxed fits and quality finishes. A loyal following emerged, with many women introducing their daughters to Motto – sparking a legacy that still continues.

2000s – A Family Affair

In 2007, Lauren French stepped into the business, bringing fresh energy and a new perspective. Motto refreshed its look and launched its first online store, laying the foundation for a digital future while holding true to its family roots.

2010s – Digitals & Community First

Motto embraced e-commerce and social connection, transforming into a truly omni-channel brand. The Motto Lovers VIP Facebook group and daily live styling videos turned shopping into a shared experience. The Miracle Pants became an instant icon.

2020s – The F*** It Era

From a pandemic pivot to a digital-first success story, Motto redefined itself once again. Julia Morris joined as ambassador, the Miracle Pants hit a 37,000-person waitlist, and Motto entered its 40th year with a bold new mantra: style, inclusivity and fearless fun.

Meet the Founders

FAYE BROWNE

While working as a buyer for one of Australia’s most successful retail fashion chains, Faye met her husband John. After several years of working together, Faye and John decided to follow their passion and start their own fashion brand, Motto Fashions.

Faye's love of mentoring staff, both professionally and personally, means that the Motto family is one of a kind. Empowering women to chase their dreams extends to both employees and customers. Faye has made it her life mission for women to embrace who they are in every way and share their fabulousness with the world.

At the age of 70, she continues to empower herself and stay true to her authentic self. Faye's story serves as a testament to the idea that it's never too late to embrace one's individuality and live life on one's own terms. Her journey of self-discovering is not just freeing but also internally fulfulling.

Faye’s style: Edgy, new trends and unexpected elements.

Faye's F words: Fab, Fire and Fantastic

You can follow her style on Instagram @fayebrownemottofashions

LAUREN FRENCH

With a background in high-fashion, Lauren spent her late teens and early 20s travelling the globe, hunting out the hottest trends. In 2007, she joined the family business and quickly developed a digital strategy to launch Motto Fashions online.

Lauren's entrepreneurial prowess earned her recogntion as a finalist in the Ausmumpreneur Awards and the Smart50 Marketing Awards, alongside taking out Gold and Bronze accolades at the She-Com product awards.

When not at work, Lauren loves spending time at home with her young family. She effortlessly juggles the responsibilites of being a CEO and a loving mother, challenging the societal stereotypes implying that women can't do both. Lauren is a living example of someone that not only talks the talk, but walks the walk, finding a way to authentically be herself amidst the challenges of a demanding career and motherhood.

Her success in e-commerce while raising a family redefines the narrative set for women in the industry, making room for the women who follow after her.

Lauren's style: Feminine. Contrast of dressy pieces paired with casual staples.

Lauren's F word: F***

You can follow her style on Instagram @laurenmottofashions

Want to Connect?

We'd love to hear any feedback you have - even if you just want to say hi.

Love letters and constructive critisism also welcome.

Chat to us here

bossladies@motto.com.au