Jody Kahlon

Hello all!

I've been quite the busy bee lately, always immersed in creating new designs. When you're a maker, you're always dreaming up new designs or refining design details on previous garments. And sometimes, the best way to test them out? Make something for yourself!

Inspired by the need for warmth during these chilly Melbourne nights, I decided to conjure up a cozy jacket. It's based on my "Toy Soldier" pattern, but unlike the toy soldier which is multi-functional with interchangeable pieces: this coat is an all in one construction piece!

Bonus points for the vintage vibes: buttons sourced from (bought from Italy and they're 30 years old, folks!) and the most delicate vintage wool fabric you can imagine. Aside from the buttons the whole coat has been recycled/repurposed.

I absolutely love how versatile this jacket panel is! It will become my new go-to piece!

Swing by 447 North Road, Ormond, and you might just catch a glimpse of me wearing it!

xx
Jody

Hey everyone!

Sometimes, I work late at night, when the world is winding down, the kids are asleep, and life's daily demands take a back seat. Winter is especially conducive to this, as I turn off the lights, leaving only the warm glow of my lamp to offer comfort and a sense of ease. It allows me to fully immerse myself in my own creative world.

In these quiet, intimate moments, I can truly focus on the intricate details of my designs. There's something cathartic about this process, and it feels like a sanctuary for my creativity.

The talented , was once again on hand to capture this moment with his trusty camera, documenting me in that serene space. I'm so grateful for his eye and ability to capture these special moments.

Don't forget to come see the new window display we created together at 447 North Road, Ormond! It's a culmination of those late-night creative sparks, and I can't wait to share it with you all.
xx �Jody

Photography and video by

Hello all!

Introducing my latest creations! A stunning new line of four pieces inspired by the elegance of origami and clean, geometric lines.

I wanted to create something effortlessly chic and understated, focusing on the beauty of a single colour. Each piece is crafted from luxurious viscose and lined with silk for a touch of indulgence.

The bodice and sleeve are designed as one continuous pattern piece, folded together like origami – talk about artful construction! And because the fabric is so simple, I added extra details through strategic seam lines to accentuate the feminine form.

What do you think of these new pieces? Are they a perfect complement to my new window display, "The Third Place"

Come see them in person at 447 North Road, Ormond, and let's chat fashion!

xx
Jody

Hey lovelies!

It’s been a while since my last post! But trust me, the wait has been worth it. I've been pouring my heart and soul into a super exciting new project – my latest window display, "The Third Place"!

This beauty is a collaboration with my creative partner in crime, the incredibly talented Diego De Nicola (who, by the way, also designed the collage on the curtains with his own photography for the display!). His street photo of the "Umbrella Girl" is just breathtaking – you've got to see it in person to truly appreciate it.

The two outfits you see are part of a brand new design, all about simple elegance with intricate details. There are two more pieces (a pantsuit and another dress!) that will be making their debut in the window over the next few months, so keep your eyes peeled!

Stay tuned for some behind-the-scenes peeks into the making of this amazing window, because I'm seriously proud of what Diego and I have created together!

And of course, a HUGE shoutout to for their A+++ quality work on the main canvas!
You need to come experience this in person at 447 North Road, Ormond. It's a feast for the eyes!

Love you all heaps!

xx �Jody

Hey lovelies!

It's happening!

My shop will be closed for a few days while we transform the windows into something truly magical.

A massive thank you to the incredible Carolyn Kenrick for her stunning previous display. Get ready to be amazed by what's coming next!

I can't wait to share it with you all.

Stay tuned for the big reveal and see you soon!

Xx
Jody

Hey lovelies!

My heart is bursting with joy! I finally got the last two light shades up and they look absolutely stunning! Don't you just LOVE what the incredibly talented did with the design? Special shout out to the for covering the huge drum shades and for the fitting and installation. Oh and for putting up with my fastidious attention to placement.

Apologies for the radio silence lately, I've been buried in client projects and prepping an exciting new window display (eek, can't wait to share it with you all soon i promise!).

But for now, come step into my light-filled world at 447 North Road, Ormond, or visit my website at https://jodykahlon.com to see all the latest creations!

PS all the fittings have been recycled and upcycled.

xx
Jody

Hey button lovers!

Buttons, buttons buttons and more buttons!

Buckle up, because I'm about to take you on a little field trip to one of my all-time favorite happy places: The Button Shop in Malvern!

I mean, seriously, can we talk about the sheer joy of rummaging through mountains of gorgeous buttons? t's like a treasure hunt for the perfect finishing touch to any garment!

On this particular button-filled adventure, I was on the hunt for the perfect gems to adorn my latest creation – the showstopper for my next window display (stay tuned for a sneak peek soon!).

If you're as obsessed with buttons as I am (and let's be real, who isn't?) then you need to check out The Button Shop in Malvern. Or better yet, come visit me at my atelier at 447 North Road, Ormond, and let's geek out over all things button-y together!

Xx�Jody

Hey lovelies!

Diego De Nicola (my creative partner in crime and all-around photography whiz) worked his magic and captured these dreamy shots of me in action. Every time he's in town, I snag him for a photo sesh – and this time, we were prepping to shoot the amazing dress I made for my current window display. It's so inspiring when you get to collaborate with someone so incredibly talented and the creative energy just flows!

Speaking of window displays...get ready to have your minds blown! Diego and I are cooking up something seriously incredible – I'm bursting with excitement to share it with you all soon! Stay tuned for behind-the-scenes sneak peeks in the coming weeks.

But don't worry, the current display featuring my amazing collab with Carolyn Kenrick (which I'm still so proud of!)will be sticking around until the new one goes in. So you've still got time to check it out!

But for now, let's all get lost in these ethereal images together. And if you're feeling inspired, come say hi at 447 North Road, Ormond, or visit my website at https://jodykahlon.com!

Love you all heaps!

xx
Jody

Hey everyone!

Remember that fabric strike-off from the super-talented Diego De Nicola (The one that turned into that gorgeous dress I showed you?) Well, I'm a fabric hoarder ...so there were scraps leftover!

What's a girl to do? On a random Thursday night, I had a lightbulb moment: PILLOWS! And guess who got roped into the fun? Diego himself, navigating the overlocker like a pro! (Okay, he was better at pinning...but we had a blast!)

The end result?

Five fabulous new pillowcases for my shop. They're adding a serious dose of style to my couches. This is my happy place – a late night in the atelier creating, tunes on, making magic - good vibes!

Come say hi and see them in person at 447 North Road, Ormond. You might even catch me at the machine after hours!

Xx
Jody

Photography by photography.diegodenicola.com

Hey everyone!

It's Throwback Thursday, so let's time travel to my last Glen Huntly window – the Topiary wonderland! I can't stop remembering the playful ceramics by Rose Agnew, the cute greenery... and that bright summer maxi! Pure whimsical magic!

I loved every detail of that display. It was all about creating a sense of childlike fun... which I sometimes need a little dose of, don't you?

This was a challenging period for me, and this collaboration really came at the right time. Thank you Rose!

Speaking of windows... the current one with Carolyn Kendrick is on display for just a bit longer at 447 North Road Ormond. And then? Get ready for something BIG. An ambitious project... and yes, it WILL be amazing! Trust Me!

Xx
Jody

Photography by photography.diegodenicola.com

Hey everyone!

It’s been a crazy busy 3-4 weeks! I've traded my measuring tape for a toolbelt lately – deep in renovation madness! Shop and dwelling renovations mean sawdust and demo one minute, fabrics and music the next.

Talk about a lifestyle switch-up!

Yesterday I jumped back into my favorite place, the couture bubble – with pattern master Liz. I’m coming up with some HOT new looks for the next window display. Get ready to be WOWED!

Also, throw in a fab client meeting – new projects are my fuel!

And the best part? Winding down with fabric, great tunes, and that special dressmaking magic. It's my happy place, and when the world feels just right! Bliss!

Come step into that bubble with me at 447 North Road Ormond, or visit my website at https://jodykahlon.com.

Xx
Jody

Photography by photography.diegodenicola.com

Hey everyone!

Today, I'm all about the unexpected inspiration you find in the everyday. Diego's down from Sydney, and we've been deep in talks about a super exciting new window.

During work breaks, there's magic happening...my backyard creeper plant? It's exploding with autumn colour! Watching those leaves change has been like a private art show – vibrant reds, oranges, yellows...

Diego, of course, couldn't resist snapping some shots (they're gorgeous, right?) Nature's a pretty amazing designer, wouldn't you say?

I draw so much inspiration from the world around me. These leaves, the way the light hits them... it's sparking all kinds of creative ideas. Could they inspire a whole new piece? You'll just have to wait and see..

Xx
Jody

Photography by photography.diegodenicola.com

Hey everyone!

Let's shift gears from dresses to...well, teaching how to MAKE the dresses! Because sharing my passion for fashion isn't just about the finished pieces, it's about the process.

Over the years, I've loved working with students of all ages, showing them the magic that goes into every cut and stitch. Seeing them leave with that spark of excitement, ready to create something of their own? That's the best feeling.

And at the end of the day knowing you inspired someone by passing on the exact passion that made you go on this journey is well worth it.

Come share that passion with me at 447 North Road Ormond, or visit my website at https://jodykahlon.com.

Xx
Jody

Photography by photography.diegodenicola.com

Hey everyone!

Look who's come to visit! Swallows are swirling around my current window display, thanks to the magic of . Aren't they the sweetest touch? They make the whole scene even more adorable!

Honestly, I'm so proud with this window. Every detail – the playful toy soldiers, the deer and now the these feathered friends - just fills me with joy!

Come see it twinkle at night (447 North Road, Ormond) – the magic doubles after dark!

Xx
Jody

Photography by photography.diegodenicola.com

Hey all!

Feast your eyes on my latest creation – it's the perfect mix of playful and chic.

I’ve been working with Diego De Nicola designing my own exclusive fabric ranges. During the sample process a strike off is produced to refine design details and colours. Being an HUGE advocate for low wastage with my fabrics, I decided to use the strike-off to create a new sample of a design I’ve been working on.

And here it is! A sample from a sample! He he!

The Japanese details on the sleeves he designed? Just stunning. The colour swatches on the bodice? Speechless! I kept the skirt simple to let the print shine, and that viscose feels SO good.

Seriously, the details are EVERYTHING.

And that bow? Total cuteness overload! Dress it up with stockings and boots, or rock it with funky sneakers – this outfit has serious versatility.

This is a brand-new pattern, and I'm obsessed! You can customise it with ANY fabric you like... and keep an eye out in the near future for some new designs inspired by this pattern!

Of course, I had to make it for myself – how could I resist?

Come check it out at my shop 447 North Road, Ormond and let me know what you think!

Photography by photography.diegodenicola.com

Xx
Jody

I love it when I am able to try on one of my creations and it fits!

Note the different combos, which are:

1. A coat.

2. A skirt and jacket

3. A skirt and crop top

4. A dress

5. A jacket and dress

xx
Jody

Hello everyone!

I am thrilled to share the exciting culmination of a recent project with you. A few weeks ago, I documented the process of creating a versatile outfit for my client, Andrea, and today I finally had the opportunity to reveal the stunning ensemble to her.

The client's brief was clear - she needed a sophisticated outfit for a wedding that could also be worn for other occasions with different pieces. I envisioned a chic 2-piece pantsuit that perfectly reflected Andrea's personal style, and I was determined to bring this vision to life!

Every detail of the outfit was carefully crafted with precision, keeping in mind the need for versatility. I worked tirelessly to select the perfect fabric and was fortunate to find a luxurious Italian silk with beautiful floral motifs that added an elegant touch to the ensemble.

Witnessing her sheer joy and satisfaction when she saw the outfit for the first time was truly heartwarming. It reminded me of why I am so passionate about providing personalized service and creating garments that can be worn for multiple occasions. This commitment is part of my dedication to the slow fashion movement.

The inspiration behind Andrea's 2-piece outfit has now become part of my new range! Stay tuned for more variations and a new window design featuring this exciting shape in the upcoming months!

Investing in a garment that is tailored exclusively to your style and body is an extraordinary experience. Having an outfit that can be worn more than once adds even more meaning. I invite you to join me on this journey of creating beautiful, sustainable fashion.

If you're interested, please reach out to me today. You can visit me at 447 North Road Ormond or check out my website at https://jodykahlon.com. I can't wait to connect with you!

Photography by photography.diegodenicola.com

Xx
Jody

Hello!

Have you ever had trouble finding a well-fitting dress in a fast-fashion store? There's a reason for that, and it goes beyond just body shapes. As an experienced couture designer, I've witnessed firsthand how the Australian fashion industry is prioritizing speed and profit over quality.

The art of pattern-making is crucial for clothes that fit perfectly. It requires attention to detail and experience. Unfortunately, fast fashion brands focus on producing a large quantity of products for the “24 seasons” in a year. This often means that the first sample of a garment, which could be properly fitted, is given to an inexperienced fashion graduate. As a result, millions of flawed items are produced.

Here's why this approach is problematic:

- Cutting corners to increase profits. Clothes end up with many flaws and are often unsold, contributing to landfill waste.

- Skill matters: Experienced pattern-makers and sample makers understand how fabric drapes, moves, and how individual proportions affect the fit of a garment.

- The lack of standardized Australian sizing regulations creates confusion for consumers, as each brand has its own sizing scale.

- Prioritizing speed and low-cost production in fast fashion leads to more waste and environmental issues.

It's time for a change. We need to demand that the industry and the government implement a code of standards. As consumers, we can also make a difference by supporting local makers and avoiding fast fashion brands.

Let's break the cycle of fast fashion and create a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry!

Xx
Jody

Photography by diegodenicola.com

Hello!

Over the years, one recurring challenge I've encountered in crafting my garments is the scarcity of beautifully designed fabrics here in Australia. Whether it's due to the vast distance or the hefty price tag associated with importing high-quality materials, the struggle has been real.

Since the start of my journey back in 1997, I've been acutely aware of this challenge. Whenever I stumbled upon something unique and inspiring, I made sure to procure a little extra, anticipating the scarcity. Savouring every offcut, Over time, I have culminated a modest collection of fabric scraps. However, far from being mere remnants, these pieces became the building blocks for countless unique creations over the years.

Let me share with you a couple of examples – the "Japanese Geometry" collection piece, a stunning corseted strapless dress meticulously handcrafted from Italian cotton/viscose and luxurious Japanese silk. Then there's the cute and gorgeous "Doll Dress," crafted from Japanese silk, sumptuous Italian wool, and delicate cotton coalescence. The intricate pieces that adorn both dresses are sourced from these "spares" of fabric collected over the years, each telling its own story of discovery and creativity.

In a way, the limitations I faced while sourcing fabrics prompted me to innovate and create designs that are truly unique in form and style. Yet, despite the creativity it has sparked, I can't help but yearn to be able to access such beautiful fabrics that are more readily available.

Discover these unique fabrics by visiting my atelier/shop at 447 North Road Ormond Melbourne, or visit my website jodykahlon.com

Photography by (https://www.instagram.com/diego_denicola_au/

Hello, beautiful ladies!
Have you ever wondered about the magic of bespoke fashion? It's all about the benefits and value of custom dressmaking and tailoring.

You'll be amazed to see the rising trend of bespoke fashion among women aged 45-60. More and more women are finding satisfaction in custom-made clothing. It's not just about the perfect fit and unique style, but also the environmental benefits.

Yes, you heard it right! Choosing custom-made over fast fashion contributes to a greener Earth. It's your chance to make a difference while staying stylish.

Also, who doesn't love the exclusivity that comes with wearing custom-made apparel? Let's celebrate individuality and timeless style together!

Come visit me at my shop 447 North Road Ormond, or visit my website at https://jodykahlon.com

Photography by photography.diegodenicola.com

Xx
Jody

How I make my labels?

I love creating everything in my shop, and my labeling process is no exception. I use silk printing to add a special touch to the labels. I then carefully insert the label into every piece and write down the fabric used and care instructions. It's my way of adding a personal touch just for you!

Feel free to drop by and say hello at 447 North Road Ormond, or visit my website at https://jodykahlon.com. I can't wait to connect with you!

Xx
Jody

Fittings are not just about the garment; they're about embracing your unique shape. Each piece is a custom fit, ensuring it accentuates your individual beauty.
Whether you need a dress for that important day, a smart casual work suit or simply feel the need to look good, let me create a magical and bespoke version of you! I treat every piece as a unique work of art to be celebrated along with your uniqueness!
Come in and say hi or view my collection at 447 North Road Ormond or through my website https://jodykahlon.com
Xx
Jody

I'm excited to reveal Part 2 of my latest collaboration with the talented ! We've given our window display collaboration a fresh spring/summer vibe while keeping elements of the toy soldier display, like the original archway and toy soldiers, as our canvas.

Carolyn's creativity soared as she created a new artwork featuring clouds and captivating eyes. Inspired by her vision, I brought it to life in a stunning new dress. We also replaced the crocodiles with a beautiful deer.
With passion driving every stitch, I crafted a maxi dress made from bamboo viscose and had Carolyn's artwork printed on it with the help of the super talented Diego De Nicola. To add a touch of magic, I adorned the scene for window a with floating clouds embellished with tiny rain-like beads.

In the adjacent window, a charming toy soldier gazes in wonder at the resting deer. Behind them sits a camellia bonsai inside the tunnel. To complement the cute scene, I selected a playful pink playsuit adorned with patterns designed by fabric designer Mirjam Aigner, adding a sense of fun to the story.

A big thanks to and for their exceptional workmanship once again. And an extra big thanks to for helping with the print design and taking these amazing photos.

It truly is a gorgeous installation, and I invite you to come and see it for yourself at night at 447 North Road, Ormond! I hope you love it as much as we do!

Xx
Jody

Silk Summer Playsuit

Welcome to the peach fuzz era! 🍑✨ Embrace the sunny days and warm nights with effortless elegance in this beautifully designed bodice. It's cut on the bias to sculpt and accentuate your torso with finesse.

Watch as the lapels cascade gracefully, transforming into delicate shoulder straps that add a charming touch to your outfit. This piece is crafted with love and adorned with the exquisite artwork of fabric designer .aigner
Get ready to not only look good but also feel amazing.

Don't miss my new spring window display featuring this stunning creation at 447 North Road, Ormond. 🌸💫

Xx
Jody

So this is happening!!!
I wasn’t planning on moving. I had been eyeballing a shop and dwelling around the corner for a few months. I decided to take a look and well, I guess I took the offer, it’s perfect and bigger!!!

I have been off social media for a number of months. Last year in November, 2 life changing events happened to me in the space of a week. Not something I would ever discuss on social media…. But it totally rocked my world.
So…. Now I have my hands full and my mind busy getting a new shop and dwelling decorated for new beginnings.
I’m very excited and eager to install my next shop window display. A collaboration with Carolyn Kendrick a very talented artist from Sydney. We started working on it over a year ago. It’s big!!!! And I can wait to show you all. Stay tuned.

😘

It’s been a while since I have made a post. The work has not stopped and my busy hands prefer not to be glued to social media. Hope that does not offend any one.

Here are some pictures of my latest shop window display.

‘Topiary’ featuring a collection of sculptural planters and art work by Rose Agnew.

It’s a must see in real life. If you are on the area come and check it out!

1066 Glenhuntly Road, Glen Huntly.
My shop hours will be updated soon on my website with my Summer holiday hours. You can still see the window if I’m closed and have a picnic in the park while you are over here.

Happy holidays. 😘