We met with Cammy the friendly, stylish and inspiring owner of local biz The Bag Lady 925
Cammy, the owner of local biz The Bag Lady 925, isn’t just a whizz at sourcing stunning new, preloved, and vintage luxury bags, jewellery, clothes, and accessories … she is also packed with wisdom and life lessons!
Our chat with her was such a treat. We didn’t just learn about her amazing local business and the woman running the show, we left feeling motivated, inspired, and ready to take on the world!
Need a little Cammy inspo in your life?
Check out our chat below:
1 :: Hey Cammy, you sure look stylish today! Where did your love of fashion come from?
I come from a long line of stylish people. My dad was the CEO of an accounting firm and always dressed sharply. I can still remember the fresh smell of his dry-cleaned suits. I definitely got my sense of style from him, which he inherited from his parents. I love looking at old photos of them, always so well-dressed. My grandmother was a really stylish lady with loads of stacked jewellery. I think I get my jewellery obsession from her haha!
Growing up, I went through many fashion phases, from tomboy to goth. As a teenager, I made my own skirts, jewellery, and collars. I feel like how I dress reflects who I am.
I meet women who have spent their whole lives pleasing others and only later find their confidence. I’m not waiting for that, I’m living it now.
2 :: And what brought you to the Southern Highlands?
I grew up in Sydney, but when I was younger, my dad decided to slow down and bought a property in Robertson. Most of my weekends and holidays were spent there. As a kid, I didn’t fully appreciate how special it was, but as I got older, I started to see the beauty of nature and quiet. In today’s digital world, having the chance to disconnect and be surrounded by nature had a really positive impact.
I feel like the Highlands is my family now.
3 :: What were you doing before you started The Bag Lady 925
I originally worked in hotel management and event planning, then moved into smaller business hospitality, where I felt I could make a difference. Working in hospitality, I really enjoyed interacting with people.
4 :: And how did The Bag Lady 925 start?
I’ve always been into rare collectibles and antiquities, especially fine art—Pro Hart is a favourite. I’ve got an eye for the unique like my two 2022 Louis Vuitton Paint Can bags, which is a nod to Dadaism. To me, they’re both art and fashion history. I also love creating my own art, dabbling in everything, etching and surrealist realism are some of my favourites.
Another thing that inspired me to start The Bag Lady 925 was my friends. A lot of them had gorgeous designer bags they never used. I wanted to give people the chance to own something beautiful without having to blow an entire paycheck, and actually enjoy using it, instead of leaving it in a cupboard, too afraid to wear. I love empowering women, and I think the things I sell can help to do that. Looking good and feeling fresh can really boost confidence.
I was also inspired by my own past and the things I’ve been through. It’s changed my relationship with fear and made me braver than ever before. I knew I had to take the leap and I’m so glad I have.
My father taught me to genuinely care about the people I work with and it’s what keeps me going as well.
5 :: We love that! And is that also your philosophy towards life?
Absolutely! Live for yourself, not others! Invest your time and money in what brings you joy and enrichment. Don’t let fear dictate your choices, be confident in them. Take the risk, embrace the lessons, and own whatever comes your way.
6 :: Could we say the same about everything you offer at The Bag Lady 925?
Change up your style, be fluid, try new things and be bold. We have so many exciting and beautiful things at The Bag Lady 925 that can make that possible.
7 :: What’s it like being a mum and running your own business?
People told me that I would lose myself in motherhood, I made sure that wasn’t the case. My partner and I share responsibilities. I work and study as well, so it’s a partnership.
Becoming a mum did change me in other ways though. I learned how to set boundaries while also focusing on how to keep my son safe in today’s world. It’s so important to make sure he’s surrounded by people with the right intentions. I want him to grow up feeling comfortable, knowing he can always be open and talk to me. I’m also teaching him style and how to feel confident when he goes out no matter what he wears.
8 :: How has your experience on social media evolved since you started using it for your business?
I started out using Instagram as a platform to showcase my life experiences through fashion as an influencer but it’s turned into so much more. Through Instagram, I’ve made amazing friends in my community, women with similar interests and experiences. The support I’ve received has been incredible, it’s made this more than just a business for me. It’s become a way to inspire and connect with others. Right now, with so much fear around, I think it’s more important than ever to spread a little light wherever we can.
9 :: How do you source all the incredible items you sell?
I spend a lot of time hunting online and in the community for rare and beautiful things, it’s more than just a hobby. I’ve got an eye for it, and while I can only wear or use so much, I know there are plenty of people looking for those unique pieces too. I love sharing all the cool stuff I find with others!
10 :: What kind of wonderful things can we expect to find at The Bag Lady 925?
We offer a fantastic range of beautiful new, preloved, and vintage designer bags, designer watches, rare sneakers, and stunning designer jewellery, including Tiffany [aka 925 club] pieces. I also stock designer clothes from labels like Christian Dior and Chanel. If it’s rare and collectible, I either have it or can track it down. For example, I’m currently sourcing a Rolex and other special pieces for my clients. If you’re looking for something extraordinary, just let me know!
Wonderful!
Thanks so much Cammy, for meeting with us today!
We’re feeling so inspired and also super keen to treat ourselves to something beautiful and unique!
Luckily we know just the place to look.
If you’re interested in finding something special for yourself or someone you love, then pay a visit to The Bag Lady 925 at its location inside Coach House Collective in Bowral.
You can also follow The Bag Lady 925 page on Instagram to keep up to date with all the awesome goodies Cammy has available.
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