Curated for confidence, individuality, and the joy of discovering something unexpected.

About

Welcome to The Reckless Abandon Boutique

The Reckless Abandon Boutique has moved to a private space in West End where I look forward to welcoming you to visit and try garments on I just know you will love.

Here, you’ll find a curated selection of designer womenswear and everyday garments ranging from size 10 t0 24. 

FREE PARKING availabe. (Please call ahead if you have accessibility requirements.) 

Labels & Sizes

The Reckless Collection features an array of remarkable labels:

  • Trelise Cooper (NZ): COOP, COOPER, CURATE, Trelise Cooper COUTURE

  • Megan Salmon (Fremantle)

  • JOHNNY WAS (California)

  • Maud Dainty (Melbourne)

  • ORIENTIQUE, Adrift, PQ Collection - Brisbane local labels

The shop also carries everyday clothing made from natural fibres, including 100% organic cotton, to keep you cool in summer while offering sleeves to protect you from the hot Australian sun.

 

Meet Cate

I am Cate. I completed a Diploma of Fashion Design & Garment Technology while working in department stores, MYER and David Jones. I also worked for iconic Australian fashion label, Metalicus after two terms as a sales stylist and plus size specialist for womenswear powerhouse, Taking Shape.

I wanted to create a space where I'd find the kind of clothing I've alwanted to see. This is not business. It's personal. Clothing is personal, for it carries us through each day of our lives - it has a job to do - and I aim curate ones that mean the most.   

Fashion Philosophy

For 17 years, I’ve been actively listening to my customers, and your feedback directly shapes the garments I choose. It’s the highest compliment when you say I select beautiful pieces - it's truly your handiwork reflected in the shop!

I champion slow fashion and have been environmentally conscious throughout my adult life. My pet peeves include superfluous waste, single-use plastics, and planned obsolescence in design and manufacture. The ocean valiantly needs protecting and every little bit we do counts.

Personal Story

Fashion runs in my family. My Oma was a gifted sewer who couldn’t walk past a fabric shop without getting tactile with the textiles. My father’s design journals and architectural digests nurtured my curiosity. In the early 90s, I studied graphic design and interiors, but I realised my true passion lay in observing and appreciating well-designed clothing.

After almost 20 years in the industry, I’ve developed a refined appreciation for intelligent design, quality materials, and thoughtful aesthetics.

 

Testimonials

“Absolutely bursting with designer things that fit me! Lots of passion has gone into this shop. An absolute must!” – JW, Local Guide

“Absolutely fantastic to deal with, would highly recommend.” – Tammy Russ

“Cate’s intrinsic knowledge of fashion and its elements are extensive, which shows in the overall aesthetic when browsing through her shop.” – C. Montgomery

“Cate is friendly and chatty and knowledgable, and she knows the city well. She gave us great recommendations for places to visit and restaurants. I get complimented by strangers every time I wear the dress. ” – M & J Bellfry

Come Visit

I’d love for you to pop by the space and experience the boutique for yourself. Every piece has been carefully selected with style, quality, and longevity in mind—and I look forward to helping you find something you truly love.