Iconic Australian fashion designer Perri Cutten has passed away at the age of 73, leaving behind a legacy that has shaped women's fashion in Australia for over four decades. Known for her modern classic aesthetic, Cutten died peacefully on Friday, April 4, 2025, surrounded by her family. The news was confirmed by the Austin Group, which acquired her brand, in a heartfelt statement shared on social media.
"We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Perri Cutten, an iconic figure in Australian fashion whose name has become synonymous with timeless elegance and sophistication," the statement read. "Her contribution to the fashion industry was not only visionary but also deeply personal—she understood the modern Australian woman and designed with purpose, integrity, and grace." Georgina Austin, a director at the Austin Group, emphasized that Cutten built a legacy that has endured for decades, dressing generations of Australian women with style, grace, and confidence.
Born in 1951, Cutten launched her fashion label at the age of 31, after completing a graphic design course at Swinburne University in Melbourne. She opened her first store in the suburb of Armadale in 1982, quickly establishing herself as a prominent figure in the fashion industry. By 2011, her designs were available in 32 locations nationwide, including major department stores such as Myer and David Jones.
Throughout her career, Cutten received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Woolmark Prize in 1991, which recognized her excellence in the industry. In 1998, she was honored with an honorary doctorate from Swinburne University’s Faculty of Design, acknowledging her significant contributions to Australian fashion.
Cutten's designs were characterized by their flattering silhouettes and use of high-quality fabrics. She once described her aesthetic as "good fabrics, good taste, and always flattering." Her approach to design was driven by a clear understanding of her customer base, particularly the growing demographic of professional women entering the workforce in the 1980s. "Women had just become part of the workforce in a much bigger way than they’d been," she noted in a 2011 interview. "They’d been mostly nurses and teachers but now they were going into corporate jobs."
In her early years, Cutten recognized a gap in the market for feminine corporate wear that was both stylish and appropriate for the workplace. "So that’s what we did; designs that would help [women] fit in and feel feminine but not look silly," she recalled. This focus on practicality and elegance resonated with her customers and set her apart from other designers.
In addition to her design work, Cutten was known for her philanthropic efforts. She was actively involved with Foundation 59, which runs programs for disadvantaged young people, and participated in a fundraising group for the National Gallery of Victoria. Her commitment to giving back to the community reflected her values and the spirit of her brand.
Cutten lived on the Mornington Peninsula with her long-term partner, photographer Jo Daniell. She was also a loving mother to her daughters, Kate and Gaby, and stepmother to Lily and Coco. Her family was a significant source of support throughout her life and career.
The announcement of her passing prompted an outpouring of tributes on social media, with many fans and former colleagues sharing their condolences and memories. One commenter expressed, "Love Perri Cutten clothes, my wardrobe is full of their designs. RIP Perri Cutten." Another added, "So sad, I worked for Perri Cutten for so many years. RIP beautiful lady."
As the fashion world mourns the loss of Perri Cutten, her impact on the industry and the lives of countless women will not be forgotten. A death notice confirmed that a private cremation will take place, with a memorial service to be announced in due course. Cutten's pioneering spirit, impeccable eye for design, and the enduring mark she left on Australian fashion will continue to inspire future generations of designers and fashion enthusiasts.
In reflecting on her career, Cutten once noted the importance of discipline in maintaining her brand's identity. "It would have been lovely to go off on a tangent and do all the hot, latest looks and get into all the papers and magazines," she said. "But we didn't. That isn't what our customer wanted and it isn't good business." This commitment to her vision and her customers has solidified her place as a true icon in the fashion industry.
Perri Cutten's designs will remain available in select stores across Australia, ensuring that her legacy continues to influence and empower women in their fashion choices. Her story is one of passion, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to the art of fashion, making her a beloved figure in the hearts of many.
