Founder & creative director of SUMMI SUMMI.
Founder & creative director of SUMMI SUMMI.
From flight attendant to founder, Ashleigh Vallis has carved her own path with fierce determination and unapologetic style. Now at the helm of cult-favourite fashion label SUMMI SUMMI, she’s building more than just a brand. She’s creating a movement for slow, conscious fashion that’s designed for real people.
Based in the dreamy coastal town of Yamba, NSW, Ashleigh blends the effortless cool of Sydney with beachside ease to craft wearable pieces that turn heads and make people feel good. Self-taught, purpose-driven, and refreshingly down-to-earth, she’s grown SUMMI SUMMI from humble beginnings into a rising global label, all while raising two daughters, running a tight-knit team, and staying true to her values of inclusivity and sustainability.
We caught up with Ashleigh to talk about the journey so far, that unforgettable Paris campaign, the challenges of building a brand from scratch and what’s next for SUMMI SUMMI on the global stage.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I’m Ashleigh, founder of SUMMI SUMMI, mum to two young girls (and two wild dogs), living in the coastal town of Yamba, NSW. I grew up in Sydney but left uni early to travel and never looked back. Along the way I worked as a florist, bank teller, and flight attendant, where I met my partner. Eventually, we made the move to Yamba over a decade ago with my first daughter.
When I was on maternity leave, I was far from family and feeling creatively restless. That’s when the earliest seeds of SUMMI SUMMI were planted. I’ve always been someone who prefers to forge my own path, and building this brand has been just that: self-taught, passion-fuelled, and deeply personal.
What inspired you to start SUMMI SUMMI?
Before SUMMI SUMMI became what it is today, it started as a small children’s label called Tippi and Zep. I loved designing clothes for my daughters, but the business wasn’t sustainable. After a couple of years, friends began asking for adult versions of the kids’ pieces, so I gave it a go. The first drop sold out quickly, and for the first time, I made a profit.
That moment sparked a full rebrand, and I poured everything into building SUMMI SUMMI. Drawing inspiration from Sydney’s edge and Yamba’s laid-back coastal vibe, I set out to create practical, wearable pieces that still felt fun and elevated. Most of all, I wanted people to feel confident and amazing when they wore them.
You say SUMMI SUMMI is all about fashion for everyone. What does inclusivity in fashion look like to you in practice?
I’ve loved fashion and self-expression from a young age, but I’ve always found the industry a bit intimidating. With SUMMI SUMMI, I want to break down those barriers and create a space where everyone feels welcome to wear what they love, without worrying about being ‘cool’ enough.
Inclusivity, to me, isn’t just about size range or buzzwords, it’s about showing real people. That might be something as simple as re-sharing a photo of a mum in our clothes with kids at her feet or celebrating someone who’s tagged us, even if their pic isn’t picture-perfect. It’s about representing all kinds of people because fashion should be for everyone, not just a select few.
What’s been your proudest “pinch me” moment with SUMMI SUMMI so far?
There have been many so it’s hard to pick just one. I would say the most recent has been flying to Paris with the SUMMI SUMMI team to shoot a campaign. We were under the Eiffel Tower, and I thought, “Wow, look how far the university dropout has come”.
SUMMI SUMMI walks the walk when it comes to sustainability. Why was it so important to you to go slow and stay conscious?
Going slow and staying conscious was important to me because I’ve seen how damaging fast fashion can be. I didn’t want to be part of that cycle. While we don’t claim to be fully sustainable (because true sustainability is more about wearing pre-worn or vintage), we do everything we can to minimise our impact. That means producing in small runs, avoiding plastic, using compostable packaging, and donating any leftover stock. It’s about making thoughtful choices and being transparent, not perfect.
What advice would you give other women wanting to build something of their own, especially with zero formal training?
I think the most important thing is to never give up. If you believe in what you’re building, don’t let a lack of formal training hold you back. Most success comes from persistence, not perfection. It won’t happen overnight, and there will be setbacks, but resilience is everything. Learn from people who know more than you, find a mentor, and when you can, hire those who excel in areas you don’t. Most importantly, surround yourself with positive, supportive people, it makes all the difference.
What’s your current go-to SUMMI SUMMI piece on repeat?
It’s actually a crazy red lined leather trench coat that we sampled last year that didn’t go into production. I’m forever wearing the rejected samples.
You’ve got 5 minutes to get dressed for a surprise dinner invite. What are you throwing on?
Any of our Siren dresses. It is such a sexy fit on all shapes and sizes. It’s cut on the bias and feels like silky butter to touch.
Who are some of your personal fashion icons or creative inspirations?
I love Paris Wycherly, Maxine Wylde, and just European girls in general.
What’s next for SUMMI SUMMI?
Growing further into the US market. We already have our foot in the door with some major accounts, but that’s just the beginning!
Style creator.
From Melbourne hustle to Gold Coast bustle, Cat Sanz and her fam swapped skyscrapers for surfboards in 2021, and haven’t looked back! She’s a mum of three, entrepreneur and one of our go-tos for all things effortlessly chic.
Cat’s journey from fashion designer to content creator is like a perfectly styled outfit—layered with passion, sprinkled with inspiration and always on-trend. She started sharing her daily real estate office fits on insta and has since built a thriving styling business. Her top tip? Wear what makes you happy—confidence never goes out of style!
Read on to learn more about Cat, including some of her style tips, including that boho is back, sheer is chic, and logos are so last season.
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
We moved here in 2021.
What do you love the most about the Gold Coast?
The lifestyle here is what we love so much, we came from Melbourne and life was so hectic in city living. Here on the coast we can cruise into our weekends and spend a lot more time focused on family and nature.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m a mum of 3 with a degree in marketing and previously a fashion designer and a social media coach. I have owned and worked in businesses for a long time before creating my own styling content business, which I love. Both hubby and I are entrepreneurs and love to travel, we are lucky enough to have built businesses and life that allows us to work around the world.
You’re one of our go-tos for outfit inspiration. How did you get started as a content creator?
Oh, thank you so much. My content creation started off by sharing my daily outfits whilst working in one of our businesses (real estate). It was a way to share how I was rediscovering my style after having kids, a journey so many women find after having kids and changing careers that our wardrobes and personal style changes so much.
Can you give us your top 3 styling tips?
• Wear what makes you happy, when you feel good in your clothes you will inevitably share that confidence in how you put yourself out there in the world.
• Layering (where possible) will always look chic
• Identify your jewellery style and lean in on it, the most basic of outfits will always be elevated with some jewellery pieces.
What items are you loving at the moment?
• Maxi skirts & column dresses
• Printed Tshirts
• Great sunglasses
What trends do you think will be huge this year coming into spring and summer?
• Sheer outfits
• Crochet
• Boho
• Maxi Skirts and Column dresses
• Thongs (Sandals)
What trend is it time to say goodbye to?
Too many logos in one outfit.
What are your Gold Coast favourites?
Café: Tarte Bakery
Restaurant: Labart and Little Itoshin
Bar: Rosella’s
Beach: Cabarita otherwise Burleigh North
How do you choose to spend your days off?
We hit the Burleigh markets of a Saturday and then generally pick a beach somewhere on the coastline, set up for a few hours to play, collect shells, body surf and hang out before grabbing some lunch and returning home to chill.
Hubby and I try to grab a meal out on a Friday lunch or a weekend when we can.
Small wardrobe, big impact.
Curating a tight edit of pieces that you love is guaranteed to see your closet consuming less while, quite literally, saving you time, money; and stress on the daily.
Firstly, let’s get clear on what a capsule wardrobe actually is…
A capsule wardrobe is a collection of thoughtfully curated, easily interchangeable items designed to maximise the number of outfits you can create. These long-lasting looks focus on a quality over quantity philosophy, while streamlining your closest and embracing fashion sustainability.
But before you start culling your wardrobe, you must be clear on your desired personal style. Your wardrobe, (no matter how big or small), must reflect your style and be in complete alignment with your body shape, personality; and lifestyle.
Here are my five must-have items to build your first capsule wardrobe…
Depending on how casual, corporate or elevated your lifestyle is, a classic white tee or button-up shirt is the perfect base to any wardrobe. Simple, clean, timeless and will match or layer with almost anything; a white top will likely be your most worn item in a capsule wardrobe.
Denim as a fabric holds such great durability and adds an understated yet edgy structure to an outfit. Shorts, skirt or jeans; find the perfect denim cut and wash for you. Plus, this trans-seasonal staple can be paired with any colour of the rainbow.
A comfortably elevated option and a beautiful dopamine hit. A maxi dress provides an easy reach when you receive those last minute invitations, and can be dressed up or down as you please. You can opt for a floral, pattern or stick to a plain colour; the maxi dress requires very little thought!
Although matching sets may seem quite on trend at the moment, (and that’s not what a capsule wardrobe is about), the value-per-wear and versatility of a set is enormous. Wear each piece as a separate or as a pair, dress with heels or with flats, top buttoned up or open with a tank underneath; a matching set covers all bases.
So often it’s the footwear that can be the Achilles heel of a head-to-toe look. Many of us will spend time and change our entire outfit, simply because we had no appropriate footwear to match. A simple tan sandal/slide or white sneakers are a perfect final touch to the wardrobe. You won’t have to think about matching or discomfort, agreeable and versatile footwear is where it’s at always!
Words by Lauren Doogan
Personal stylist at How Two Style and Pacific Fair.
Sally Manhire is as stylish as they come and her IG account is one of our style go-tos. Since launching her personal styling business on the Gold Coast 7 years ago, Sally has been the go-to gal for hundreds of women looking to level up their look, particularly those fabulous 40-and-above ladies. Known for her laid-back, friendly vibe and an eye that can spot a killer outfit from a mile away, she’s a wizard when it comes to working with all body shapes, budgets, and lifestyles. She’s also a huge fan of Australian labels, boasting incredible product knowledge that makes her the go-to stylist for anyone wanting to upgrade their wardrobe with effortless elegance.
Whether it’s finding those elusive perfect jeans or giving someone a total confidence boost with a new look, Sally’s style mojo is magnetic. We chatted to Sally about her love for the Gold Coast’s outdoor lifestyle, how midlife has shaped her passion for helping women feel confident, and of course, her top tips for elevating everyday style. And yes, she’s got some juicy insider fashion trends coming your way for the Spring and Summer seasons — spoiler alert: jelly sandals are making a comeback!
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I have lived on the GC for about 12 years now.
What do you love the most about the Gold Coast?
Being originally from the UK, this feels like the perfect place to live. The mild climate and outdoor lifestyle are a huge contrast to where I grew up, and it truly feels like paradise!
There’s also this laid-back yet lively energy which I love. I live in the middle of Southport and I still pinch myself that I can drive to the beach in 10 minutes for a morning walk and still have access to great dining, shopping and evening entertainment.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
As a personal stylist, I’ve spent the last decade helping hundreds of women redefine their style and feel confident in their own skin, something I have become increasingly passionate about. Interestingly, I kind of stumbled into this job, but I truly believe I’m where I’m meant to be. When I first began my personal styling business 10 has ago, I was unsure of my target audience but as I’ve moved into midlife, it’s become very clear and I absolutely love it.
It’s fantastic to have Pacific Fair as my workplace, where I get to spend my days enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and immersing myself in fashion and style.
Personally, I’m a mum of two grown children (who still live at home and don’t look like leaving anytime soon) and two fur babies. I am a twin (my twin sister lives very close) and I really enjoy a close knit family. One thing that age has taught me is the importance of connection, whether it’s family or community.
As a relatively new Gold Coaster, I’ve found it refreshingly easy to get involved in the community something I’ve always been keen to do. I am passionate about fitness (I’ve been a member of a brilliant gym for the past 8 years MyFit Health & Fitness Carrara) and I love the community vibe there. I also volunteer for Rosie’s, Friends of the Street, a brilliant volunteer community based organisation that supports Gold Coasters facing challenging times.
What inspired you to pursue a career in fashion and styling?
Fashion and styling has always been in my blood and growing up in London, I was surrounded by a vibrant fashion scene thanks to my mother’s market stalls. Some of my earliest memories are of exploring the eclectic shops and bustling markets across the city. My 20s and 30s were spent working in media, but my passion for fashion and styling was always bubbling beneath the surface. Even while raising my young family, I found myself increasingly drawn to the art of styling, often helping friends and family with their outfits for special events. When the time was right, this innate passion guided me to start my own Personal Styling business. Since then, I haven’t looked back.
Who or what inspires you in your styling work? Are there particular designers, trends, or public figures you look to for inspiration?
I am definitely inspired by the amazing collection of women I get to work with. Midlife can be a particularly tricky time in our lives. A time of much confusion and change. Helping women make sense of this is definitely a driving force for me.
I love classic and elegant styling, which is influenced by both my Australian and UK backgrounds. Australia’s laidback lifestyle really has me pining for effortless, laid-back clothing and my UK influence adds a touch of classic elegance to my style preferences. My style icons are Kate Moss and more recently, Naomi Watts.
I think Australian designers are amazing and I work with them as much as I can. I particularly love Viktoria & Wood and Scanlan & Theodore for high-end and brands like Assembly Label for everyday basics – I prioritize good quality over quantity every day of the week.
Do you have any tips or tricks for women looking to elevate their everyday wardrobe without completely starting over?
Absolutely! Here are some tips to elevate your everyday wardrobe without overhauling it:
Stop shopping and get organized! I have seen so many wardrobes over the years that are overstuffed with pieces bought in a panic with labels still intact. Take stock of what you already own and clear out what you no longer wear or need. Putting outfits together is a lot easier when you wardrobe only contains what you actually wear and love. Be ruthless.
Get to know your body now: a woman’s body journey is ever changing and you need to get to know the body you are in now and get your wardrobe working for who you are today. Women are very good at finding their flaws but I like to get women to notice and dress for her strengths.
Reevaluate Your Basics: Think quality over quantity. Invest in high-quality basics like plain tees, versatile sweaters, and jeans. All the pieces you wear the most. Pay attention to these pieces as the are the foundation of any wardrobe. Make sure they look and feel good and work with your lifestyle.
Be mindful: Stop the impulse buying and only shop when you genuinely need something new. When you do shop, arm yourself with a list of what you need, try it on and if you are not sure, take a breath. Walk away and put some space between you and the purchase. Do you really need it? Can it be worn with multiple outfits?
Play with Accessories: Accessories like scarves, belts, and jewelry can quickly refresh your wardrobe. They add a new dimension to your outfits without needing to buy new clothes or break the bank. It’s also a great way to play with trends without committing.
Update Shoes and Bags: Sometimes, a new pair of shoes or a stylish bag can refresh your entire wardrobe. Choose styles that compliment your existing clothes and have fun with them. The simplest outfit can be transformed by a great pair of statement shoes or bag.
What are some of your go-to wardrobe essentials that every woman should have in her closet?
If I’m putting together a hard-working everyday capsule wardrobe for a client, I always start with the following:
Great Jeans. I believe there is a great pair out there for everyone. The biggest tip I can give is to try on as many pairs as you have to. It’s a process.
White Button-Down Shirt. Timeless and versatile, it can be dressed up or down.
Tailored Blazer. Perfect for adding a polished touch to any outfit.
Everyday dresses. I love a “one-and-go” outfit and our lifestyle here in the GC offers the perfect climate and lifestyle for great, throw-on day dresses. With pockets, obviously.
Comfortable & Stylish Flats. Essential for everyday wear. I love every part of midlife but the foot situation is tricky. Those heels you squeezed into back in the day will come back to haunt you! Almost every midlife woman I work with has foot issues, so I am constantly on the look out for super stylish flats.
Style tip: Sneakers are always a good idea and look great on everyone.
As a professional stylist at Pacific Fair, what’s the process like when working with a new client?
I truly relish the opportunity to work with new clients. My approach starts with a deep dive into understanding who they are. Of course, details like body shape, sizes, and coloring are essential, but I believe the heart of great styling lies in grasping their lifestyle and personality. By getting to know what makes them tick, I can tailor my recommendations to fit in with their lives and leave them feeling confident and comfortable.
Once I have done this, I pre-shop for my client and have everything waiting for them to try on. It’s very simple, collaborative and fun.
What trends do you predict will be huge this year coming into Spring and Summer?
So many great trends already coming through. I find this time of year quite exciting and although I relish winter styling, I love the colours and fabrications of Spring and Summer.
One of the biggest trends this year is leopard print, whether that’s tops, dresses, slip-skirts, or jeans as well as cool accessories; bags, belts and shoes. Crochet and lace are more popular than ever this year, especially with return of boho-chic and Chloe inspired trends. The sporty athleisure trend is still going strong and Adidas are definitely still having a big moment with sneakers and apparel.
Footwear has been dominated by Mary-Jane’s, mesh-ballet flats, kitten heels and loafers. Summer will also see the a resurgance of flip flops and yes, I kid you not, the return of the jelly sandal!
I am already shopping spring/summer with my clients at Pacific Fair and pastel coloured linen is everywhere and just works so well here on the GC.
What are your Gold Coast favourites?
Café: Bumbles Cafe, Budds Beach
Restaurant: Blowfish Ocean Grill & Bar
Bar: The Garden Bar, The Star
Beach: Nobbys.
How do you choose to spend your days off?
When I’m not working, I am spending time with my two dogs, Dexter and Peanut, at one of our fantastic dog parks or shopping (at Pacific Fair of course).
