40 YEARS OF FASHION, FAMILY & FEARLESS FUN.
Celebrating four decades of empowering women through style.
40 YEARS OF FASHION, FAMILY & FEARLESS FUN.
Celebrating four decades of empowering women through style.
For 40 years, Motto Fashions has been more than just a clothing brand – it’s a community and a style movement.
Founded in Melbourne in the mid-1980s by fashion visionaries Faye and John Browne, Motto set out to empower Australian women through bold, confident style. Now, as we celebrate our 40 year anniversary, we’re looking back at the milestones, evolutions, and cultural moments that shaped our journey – and thanking the loyal Motto family who have been with us every step of the way.
ARCHIEVE T-SHIRTS COMING SOON
YOU'RE INVITED TO OUR FIRST EVER POP-UP EVENTS IN SYDNEY AND BRISBANE!
Spots are limited. Tickets are $50. Two tickets per booking.
We’re taking the party on the road! Join us at our exclusive pop-ups in Brisbane and Sydney for a day of fashion, fun, and all the Motto vibes. We’ll be serving up complimentary food and drinks while CEO Lauren takes the stage for a live styling session and no-filter Q&A. You’ll be first in line to shop our exclusive Archive Tee release, plus score the chance to purchase the full range she showcases — delivered straight to your doorstep.
📍 The Parlour, 209 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley
🗓️ Wednesday, 22 October 2025 @ 4pm
📍 Vista Room, Four Hundred Bar & Kitchen. 36 Blue Street, North Sydney
🗓️ Thursday, 23 October 2025 @ 4pm
OUR STORY IN VIDEO
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.
FASHION THROUGH THE DECADES
SHOP OUR ICONIC STYLES
"You can be proud to own pieces that last. Our styles are exclusive, and we insist on longevity with our designs"
LAUREN & FAYE
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 FROM YOU
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