Wear what you wonder, for your extrodinary life demands it, and your generous heart deserves it.

About

Welcome to The Reckless Abandon Boutique

Tucked away at the end of Blocksidge Arcade, 144 Adelaide Street, Brisbane City, The Reckless Abandon Boutique is a hidden gem—nestled between Albert Street (City Hall) and Edward Street (Central Train Station). Here, you’ll find a curated selection of boutique garments chosen for being sophisticated, edgy, beautiful, and unique.

 

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

Sizes range from 10 to 24, with most pieces between 14 and 22. Occasionally, you may find sizes 6 or 8—you never know what treasures await!

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 shop I'd be tempted to walk in to, where the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, but most of all, a shop that has the fashion I so much desired to find! I also wanted the space to be comfortable for mature women to visit, and accessible for anyone who's mobility challenged.

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 exploring 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, knows a little about everything, and was very helpful. She even told us where to find cafes and museums in the city!” – M & J Bell

Come Visit

I’d love for you to pop by the shop 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.