In Conversation With Louise Markey
As our latest High Summer delivery from L.F. Markey arrives into the shop, we catch up with founder and designer Louise Markey to talk about relocating back to Australia, designing for modern life, motherhood, creativity and the evolving rhythm behind the brand.
Known for its playful proportions, durable fabrics and distinctive silhouettes, L.F. Markey has long balanced practicality with personality - pieces designed to be lived in, worn often and kept for years. Now, following a recent move from the UK back to Australia, Louise is approaching both life and design from a new perspective.
From slower mornings and brighter light to the realities of balancing four children alongside running a brand, our conversation touched on everything from comfort and colour to creativity, community and what’s next for L.F. Markey.
On Returning to Australia
You’ve recently relocated back to Australia - how has the change in light, space and pace influenced your mindset creatively?
“L.F. Markey has always had some influence from my Australian background, mainly in the colours and also the casualness of the clothing. Now that I’m back I’m finding the pace to be having the biggest effect on my work - actually making it harder! I think I need a bit of pressure to hit deadlines, here the beach seems to be calling me away from my desk…”
After years in the UK, what feels most different about designing from Australia again?
“Definitely the summer collections come more easily, even though I now design them as we are heading into winter here. The move also coincides with moving back into a city after being in the countryside for three years - I think this is helping too. Seeing people out on the streets is giving the collections a younger feeling.”
Do you find distance from your core customer clarifies your vision, or creates new challenges?
“I think it does create a few challenges - I’ll need to head back to the UK regularly to stay in touch with them and the climate.”
Designing for Real Life
L.F. Markey is often described as functional but joyful - how intentional is that balance when you design?
“The balance is completely intentional. The woman I design for is very busy so practicality and comfort need to be at the forefront. But she also wants to look good, and is quite adventurous with her choices.”
“Not all of our customers like to wear colour - in fact most go for the dark colours and neutrals - but all of our customers aren’t afraid of bold volumes and experimental cuts.”
How do you design pieces that support real, busy lives but still feel expressive and special?
“I do it with the volume and cut. Fabrics are non-negotiable, they need to be 100% natural fibres and durable. We always need pockets and comfort. But the volume is where we can, and always do, play.”
What role does comfort play in your design process today compared to earlier collections?
“There is much more weight on it now - in the beginning it wasn’t a huge consideration.”
Motherhood & Creativity
Motherhood and running a brand both demand so much - how do you personally define balance at this stage?
“This is the hardest part of my life right now. I have four children ranging from 12 to 3 - it’s very hard to juggle the kids and the business and feel that both are getting the attention they need.”
“Luckily my husband also has a very flexible job so we can make it work (just!) between us.”
How do you protect creative headspace while navigating the unpredictability of family life?
“For me, I cannot work from home - I need to head into my studio to get anything done. And that space needs to be as creative as possible, fabrics out and things pinned to the wall. No one interrupting to ask for a snack!”
Do your children influence your work in subtle ways?
“My children don’t so much, but motherhood itself very much does. The need for practicality stems from there - pockets, easy fits, things that wash well and are durable.”
Looking Ahead
What feels exciting about the future of L.F. Markey right now?
“Building the Sydney shop! Though the space needs a lot of work so is also a little daunting.”
Are there new directions you’re keen to explore over the next few years?
“We will bring back menswear! We keep saying this but it keeps getting pushed back. In 2027 I hope we will finally get to this.”
What role do independent retailers like Maze play in building connection with customers?
“It’s super important for us. Independent retailers are the connecting point between L.F. Markey and our customers and are so valuable to us for this reason.”
Quick Fire With Louise
Sunrise in Sydney or a slow morning in the Cotswolds?
Sunrise in Sydney
Colour or denim?
Denim
Coffee or matcha?
Coffee
One SS26 piece for a Bristol weekend?
Longline Chore Coat in Gauze — “the most versatile piece in my wardrobe right now.”
The outfit you wear when you need to feel instantly put together?
“Mason Jeans and a tee shirt. Then I add really big jewellery.”
Early start or late-night creativity?
“(Very) early start.”
From Sydney mornings to studio conversations around practicality, colour and comfort, Louise’s approach to design still feels rooted in the same thoughtful spirit that has defined L.F. Markey from the beginning.
The latest High Summer collection from L.F. Markey has now arrived online and in store.