Jane Henderson founder of Fanniann had many creative jobs prior to founding the Fanniann label in 2005, not least as a drummer in an all girl band in the 90's. It was at this time that a trip to India galvanised her creative urge.
Goa in the 1990s was full of creative people and great markets and Jane returned with a new determination to create the kind of clothes she loved and didn't seem to be out there.
Following 6 years of training in Fashion Design and Pattern-cutting, Jane emerged with Distinction and prestigious awards in 2002.
A period of individually made designs sold to local boutiques followed and, though Jane wanted to move things up a notch.
It wasn't until her entrepreneurial brother Keith came in as mentor that her dream could be realised. With Keith as Business Manager and childhood friend Michelle as Creative Director, the Fanniann label was born in 2005.
"In an exciting way it's taken more than 30 years to journey to this point of new beginnings. As for Keith, he's made the dream a reality. We like being a small family concern because we work instinctively together and have common principals which helps us retain our integrity in business."
Jane
Above: Jane Henderson
"What I really love about my working relationship with Michelle is that it's actually a childhood fantasy come true."
Above: Michelle Byrne
"It's as though we have come full-circle from the 60's and 70's when Michelle and I would sketch clothes and sneak some of her mum's 'Biba' make-up, through the 80's wanting to dress differently and personalising shop-bought clothes."
Jane