About us

About Tohen (or where did I come from)

I’ve held pretty strong ideas about fashion since I was small. My parents love reminding me of how I would get changed into different outfits at least six times a day. 

But this was not just play, beyond the styles and colours, they always seemed important to me. 

Clothes were not just something you wore to cover your body, they were a way of describing who you were and what you valued.

There was the safety of school and college, but uncertainty around the path forward took shape while I was studying design in Florence.

I used to dream of being a person who designed clothes, but could I make that dream a reality?

Were my designs any good, and even if they were, who would want to give me a chance? Did I believe I could make a living from my passion? What would I do next?

Fortunately I didn’t have a lot of time to dwell on it. Out of the blue I received a call from Kookai and two weeks later I had left Italy and moved to Melbourne with a position as junior designer.

This isn’t a CV but thanks to some great mentors and a little luck, I’ve enjoyed some success, and been fortunate enough to hold several senior positions, first at Kookai and with other companies.

I’ve absolutely loved it. The ideas, the process, the clothes and of course the team.

But I’ve never forgotten what clothes were for.

When you grow up thinking you’re a little different, it’s amazing when you find your people. You find a sense of purpose, belonging and discover who you are. Everything just fits.

And that was the idea behind Tohen. 

To create clothes that are intentional, and will enhance the sense of who you are. 

Because I know none of us is just one thing. 

We are designers, architects, engineers, musicians, mothers, daughters, friends and partners. 

So I designed clothes that are versatile; pieces that are well-made and elegant but will work in many settings. At prices that are considered, not excessive.

Yes, we’re new, but Tohen has been in my mind for a long time, and I’m thrilled to see it finally arrive into the world.

If you’ve gotten to this point, thanks and I hope you’ll come along for the ride.

Love Lou x