Meet Sydney based designer Kanchi Williams, the face behind Australian label 'Kanchi'. Specializing in creating luxurious fashion and accessories, her brand boasts effortless glamour, confidence and comfort for women worldwide.

How did you begin your career in design?

It was by pure accident or maybe it was my destiny! My career started in corporate marketing and now I run a fashion label with fans around the world. I design and market my products and have a fabulous team that handles my manufacturing. I joke with my clients and friends, that "if I sewed or had any part in the production process I would not have any customers!"

Have you always desired to be involved in the fashion industry?

Not really, I was always creative and had a gift for picking up anything that required creativity: painting, floristry, marketing, fashion, styling, writing etc.

What inspired your latest collection?

Fairytales and architecture! The juxtopositioning of structure, texture and the creation of dreams. I will launch my Fairytales 2008 Collection during Fashion Week in April, offsite at the Gaffa Art Gallery in Surry Hills. [However] I am inspired everyday and everywhere. From something I read, to music I hear, movies, photography, and most of all people I meet.

What has been your biggest obstacle in establishing the label?

Since I do not come from a traditional fashion background (my career started in corporate marketing) I found the fashion industry a closed circle. It is only now in my 3rd year since the label’s launch, that I am being recognized by the industry, especially the media.

How do you overcome these challenges?

I always believed in myself and my product. My clients have always been so supportive, and although the fashion industry did not know about me, my client base was growing! Even now it amazes me how many fans we have around the World and yet someone in Australia will stumble across my brand and ask if it’s new.

How would you define luxury?

Luxury to me is pure indulgence: in fabric, design, comfort and the joy one receives from wearing something that makes them feel on top of the world.

How does this definition relate to your designs?

I absolutely love to watch the physical transformation when a client puts one of our garments on and their whole persona lights up, it’s amazing and extremely rewarding. I also make sure that the fabrics, design and quality of our products are the best.

Do you believe that offering your clients exclusive service changes the traditional way of doing business?

I think the modern customer, regardless of their age, wants convenience and flexibility to suit their busy lifestyles and we offer to deliver to their home or office if they want it. Also unlike other designers, I have decided to stop wholesaling and sell direct to the end consumer. This way I can deliver a quality product at great value For example: girls can buy our limited edition designer dresses from $299.

 You mention that the label extends its support to organizations worldwide that benefit and inspire women. What are these?

We support some known and some not so well known organizations. I also personally act as a sounding board for many girls who run their own businesses.

Why have you chosen to support these particular causes?

I believe that people should be empowered to build their own success, not just handed charity.

When you're not busy working, how do you like to spend your time?

I work 6 days a week so I only have one day off a week. I love the movies, reading, visiting art galleries, catching up with friends & family for a meal or coffee.

Check out Kanchi at www.kanchi.com.au