I first met Rachel Van Brussel last year, introduced by a mutual friend during Fashion Week. Within five minutes of stepping into her boutique, tucked away in one of Adelaide’s most creative laneways, I felt it instantly. That quiet knowing. The kind that only comes when you encounter something real. She cares and her talent is evident.
Over a chai latte and an easy, honest conversation, it became clear we were speaking the same language. About craft. About intention. About building something meaningful rather than fast.
Her namesake label may be young, but its presence is already undeniable. VAN BRUSSEL has quickly caught the attention of international buyers, and it’s no surprise. This is exactly what the fashion world is craving right now. Thoughtful design. Purposeful production. Sustainability that is lived, not marketed.
Each piece is crafted in Australia using small-batch production, honouring slow fashion and minimising waste. Natural fibres form the foundation of the collections, alongside carefully sourced designer dead-stock fabrics, transformed into limited-edition garments with quiet strength and modern elegance. This is fashion with integrity. Recently nominated as a finalist of the National Designer Awards this young designer is just getting started.
Can you share a little about your journey—where you grew up, your experiences in Australia and abroad, and how they shaped your creative perspective?
I grew up in Australia and studied Fashion Design between South Australia and Florence but it was my time living abroad and travelling that expanded my perspective - this life experience taught me to push boundaries, embrace individuality, and balance tradition with innovation.
What inspired you to launch VAN BRUSSEL, and what did you feel was missing in the fashion space that you wanted to create?
I felt there was space for a brand that championed Australian-made design while marrying timeless tailoring with progressive, sustainable values. I wanted to create pieces that felt purposeful, modern, and enduring.
Having lived and worked in London, Milan and Paris, what influences from those cities have found their way into your designs?
London’s boldness, Milan’s precision, and Paris’s elegance all inform my approach - each city left a mark that blends into VAN BRUSSEL’s aesthetic.
How would you describe the essence of your brand in your own words?
VAN BRUSSEL is about modern sophistication - clean, architectural lines, crafted with intention, and designed to be cherished for years to come.
Why is slow fashion and small-batch production so important to you, and how does it shape the way you create?
It ensures every piece is made with care, reduces waste, and allows me to stay true to sustainability without compromising on creativity or craftsmanship.
You often work with natural fibres and purposeful tailoring. What do you hope customers feel when they wear your pieces?
I want my customers to feel empowered, comfortable, and connected to something thoughtful - clothing that elevates without overwhelming.
What drew you to SIUNO perfumes, and why did you feel it was a good fit for VAN BRUSSEL?
SIUNO shares our values of artistry and authenticity. Their natural, genderless fragrances complement our philosophy of timeless, sensory design.
SIUNO shares our values of artistry and authenticity. Their natural, genderless fragrances complement our philosophy of timeless, sensory design.
Which is your favourite SIUNO scent, and why does it resonate with you personally?
I’m drawn to Sunetto - it has an understated depth that feels both grounding, classic, chic and inspiring, much like the clothes I create.
How do you see natural fragrance complementing fashion, and what do you hope your customers experience when they discover SIUNO at VAN BRUSSEL?
Fragrance is the invisible layer of style - it completes the experience. I hope customers feel a sense of discovery and intimacy when SIUNO scents and VAN BRUSSEL clothing come together.
I hope customers feel a sense of discovery and intimacy when SIUNO scents and VAN BRUSSEL clothing come together.
What have been some of the most rewarding moments in your journey as a founder and designer?
Seeing customers connect emotionally with the brand, and building a community that values design and sustainability, has been deeply rewarding.
What’s next for VAN BRUSSEL?
We’re expanding our offering with new collections and continuing to evolve the store into a space of collaboration, experience, and innovation.
What’s playing on your Spotify right now?
Collettivo Immaginario - Fine Di Un’Era. It’s a total vibe, go listen!
What does beauty mean to you?
Honesty, authenticity, and ease.
Best life advice you’ve ever been given?
Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.
Life is…
Precious- don’t take yourself too seriously and cherish every moment.