An Interview with Wil Valor Woman’s Head Designer, Emma Ferguson
1. Can you tell us a bit about the story behind Wil Valor Woman and what inspired you to start it?
Wil Valor Woman is a natural evolution of two decades of experience in the men’s tailoring industry, along with some fortuitous timing. While we have been creating women’s suiting for over 8 years, and while our clients were happy with the results, we were limited in our ability to accommodate to their every need or desire. So, when Brisbane’s premier team of garment craftswomen with over 40 years of experience needed a new place to call home, we couldn’t let the opportunity pass us by. We are now able to offer the same level of attention to detail and customisation to women’s clothing in the same way as we have done with the men’s. We are excited about the addition of dresses, skirt suiting, blouses and a full range of panting options now available. Your imagination is your limitation.
2. What sets Wil Valor Woman apart from other tailoring shops, and what can customers expect when they visit?
With our extensive experience we’ve mastered the art of listening and understanding a client’s needs quickly. We hold a vast array of established classic women’s patterns and the ability to create new patterns to modernise any look.
We hold direct relationships with fabric mills that supply Chanel, Valentino, Louis Vuitton, and Burberry, giving us access to exclusive, rare textiles unavailable elsewhere.
The result…A piece which is as unique and refined as the women who wear it.
3. As a female business leader, how has your journey in tailoring shaped your view on empowering women?
I believe women are already empowered—our role is simply to enhance their inner strength, confidence, and identity through style. I’ve witnessed firsthand how the perfectly tailored garment transforms not just appearance, but presence. When a woman wears something that fits flawlessly, she stands taller, moves with intention, and radiates self-assurance.
4. How do you approach working with clients to create custom pieces? Do you have a favourite part of the design process?
We enjoy building relationships, looking at our relationship as a long-term partnership. We take the time to understand who they are, what makes them feel good, and how they want to present themselves. My favourite part of the process is the fitting stage—seeing the fabric come to life on the person it was made for because it fits perfectly.
5. What are some popular trends or styles that you’ve noticed customers are loving lately?
There’s definitely been a shift toward more versatile and comfortable tailoring. Whether it’s a chic blazer that goes from the office to a dinner date or a tailored suit which defines the luxury at multiple occasions. It is a relaxed, yet structured silhouettes, with women embracing an abundance of cloth with structured shoulders and full cut tailoring.
6. What advice do you have for anyone looking to invest in high-quality, tailored clothing for the first time?
Tailored clothing as an investment in yourself, it is not just about looking good—it’s about feeling your best. Tailored clothing will last far longer than mass-produced options, and it can be adjusted to suit your ever-evolving body and style. When investing in tailored clothing, focus on pieces that you’ll wear frequently, like a perfectly fitting suit, a great pair of trousers, or a timeless blazer. Start with the essentials and build your wardrobe over time. The key is to choose pieces that you truly love and present your best self.
7. Which three inspirational women would you invite to a dinner party?
I would love to invite the following three women:
- Eileen Wockner – A pioneer for women in New Zealand’s newspaper industry and my first mentor. She was an incredible woman with so much passion, creativity and wisdom and a force to be reckoned with.
- My sister – For her zest for life and bravery to try new things as well as educating herself exhaustively to be the best she can be in business and life. She is always looking forward.
- My daughters – They will be the strong women of tomorrow and I take every opportunity for them to spend time with the wonderful women who have influenced me. They are fiercely themselves, fun loving, compassionate and resilient young ladies who inspire me to be the same.
It would be easy to name 3 famous women, but inspiring, resilient and empowering women walk beside us each and every day. Each of these women exemplifies leadership, creativity, and the power of standing up for what you believe in. A dinner with them would be an unforgettable experience!