Georgia Mae Launches Fourth Collection

Georgia Hodges’ love for design blossomed in 2013 when she would spend countless nights sewing clutches in her mum’s kitchen. Her hobby soon turned into a business when she began posting her creations on Instagram, and started receiving requests from people wanting to buy them. The next two years saw Georgia launch her first basic online store, complete an internship at Discount Universe, and create her first collection of manufactured clutches and wallets.

Georgia Mae is currently stocked in some of the biggest retailers both in Aus and in the USA, such as: Forever21, Free People and Princess Polly. Now she’s set to launch her fourth collection, which will be arriving in June.

We caught up with the designer in a rare moment of downtime for her to chat about what to expect from theupcoming collection, and get a feel for all things Georgia Mae.

TEO: How has Georgia Mae shifted and developed throughout the years? Georgia: The first collection started off with five clutches and two wallet designs. I’ve since expanded to handbags, dresses and my hand-embellished bomber jackets, which have become a backbone for the label.

The idea for the bomber jackets came to me when I was in New York City in 2016 exhibiting at my first trade show. I was a bit unsure at the time, but I’m so glad I produced these—they’ve been incredibly popular and really helped the label to be where it is today.

Your fourth collection drops in June! What’s the next step for Georgia Mae? I can’t wait! I’ve put a lot of hard work into this one and will be introducing some new, fun accessory styles. I’m heading off to The States later in the year to exhibit at my fourth trade show, where I will be showing this collection. Trade shows are where a lot of the magic happens, so I’m really looking forward to that and sharing my new collection with everyone.

If you could describe the label in three words, what would they be? Kawaii, Harajuku, Cowgirl.

A lot of your current pieces appear to be influenced by rock ‘n’ roll—for example, the ‘Wish You Were Here’ and ‘Wild Thing’ bombers, and the ‘Hendrix’ and ‘Ziggy’ bags. What’s your take on the connection between music and the label? Will this theme continue on into the future? I’m a massive music lover, so a lot of the products are named after some of my favourite music artists. Every single product name has a special personal meaning or story to it. This theme will definitely continue for future collections.

Your upcoming collection has a ’90s vibe to it, with strappy studded leather-look bags, iridescent metallic accessories and fluffy, pastel textures. What inspired you when designing these pieces? Even though I’m not a girly-girl, I’ve always been drawn to iridescent, out-there fabrics—I always joke to my mum about being a magpie that’s drawn to shiny objects. I design products that I personally like and spend a long time sourcing the perfect fabric to complement that particular style.

The ‘Lola’ bag is one of your bestsellers. I read that you plan to keep it in upcoming collections. Why do you think this piece has been so popular? I personally didn’t think the ‘Lola’ bag would take off like it has! I’ve seen so many round shaped bags over the years and thought it would just be another. I decided to put my own spin on it—the signature star hardware strap, which I think made it a bit unique.

I’ve done numerous productions of this style as it always sells out. I will be expanding the colour range, which a lot of people are excited about.

Who are some of your favourite designers? I cut my teeth interning for Discount Universe as a recent university graduate, and I have always appreciated their unique designs and how much effort goes into each piece. So, they’ll always have a special place in my heart.

Who wears Georgia Mae and where would you find a typical GM customer hanging out? My customers come from all over the world. I like to think that they would be a little bit like me in a way—a risk taker, on a crazy trip overseas somewhere and not afraid to wear whatever the hell they want.

What’s your go-to wardrobe essential? A vintage t-shirt (or 10). You can never have too many! I literally live in old band and Harley Davidson tees—everyone that knows me would tell you this is all I wear.