On the Blog
From Dream to Reality: Proud Poppy Opens in Doncaster Westfield
Better late than never! I haven't had a spare minute since we started the "operation Proud Poppy Doncaster" last week. Now that I'm finally home, on the couch, with a glass of red and watching Survivor I can finally take a minute to take it all in. And wowee what an incredible few days it has been! The long days, 5 million phone calls, clothes hanging, sore feet were all so worth it. Opening day is a bit of a blur. 9-9 we were open & I don't think we had a single minute where one of your smiling faces wasn't in store. So bloody good! I know I've said this before but whenever we open something new you have no idea the relief & to be honest, pure comfort for my anxious internal self, to see so many of you dressed in your best Proud Poppy smiling, waving & waiting outside to be one of the first ones in. It's honestly so nice and reassuring - so for all those early birds, thank you. Doncaster used to be my local shopping centre when I wanted to go for "a good shop". Affectionately known as "The Don" or "Donny" to me, Chaddy was always a bit too bougie & a bit too far, so Donny was my go to.... Until I was a size 18. I loved shopping there, but suddenly my shopping trips turned from cute outfits to bags and shoes and makeup - because they were the only things that now fit. While the fashion industry has come a long way in the last few years, by no means is it truly inclusive. There are so many gorgeous options out there but I find myself googling their size range before I risk stepping in. I am so proud that we are providing the people of Doncaster and surrounds a beautiful store, with gorgeous fashion options that cater to so many different shapes and sizes. Size 18 me 5 years ago would have been rapt. If only she knew where all those disappointing shopping trips and tears in the changerooms would lead her to just a few years later. It led me right here. Here's a few happy snaps from the weekend. But did you even set up a store if you didn't end the day sitting in a box, hiding in the back room?? If you are in the area - pop in and say hi Tara xx
Meet the Clothing Crusader Behind Proud Poppy!
Tara built a community by dressing women of all sizes. When Tara McKeon was on maternity leave in 2019 from her job as an emergency nurse, she didn’t know what to wear.She’d gone from being a size 16 to a size 24, and was struggling to find nice clothes in her new size.“I’d always loved fashion but I couldn’t find anything that made me feel good,” she tells Woman’s Day. “I didn’t want to go out in clothes I didn’t like, so I’d stay at home which made me feel worse. It was a vicious cycle.” Tara, now 38, recalls sitting in a restaurant with her husband watching women go into a clothing store and come out with shopping bags, wishing she could shop there.“I was really happy, but it made me think, but it made me think, ‘Why is this so hard?'” she says.“I wanted to help other women who were feeling the same way as me.”Tara took to the streets of Melbourne, walking into wholesalers, trying to buy packs of clothes in a range of sizes.“I knew I wanted to sell clothes from size 6 to a size 30,” she says."I hated the thought of clothes causing a divide between ‘plus-sized’ and ‘straight-sized’ women.”She called her business Proud Poppy as take on Tall Poppy Syndrome, after being told by many people it wouldn’t work. After Tara posted photos of herself in the dresses on Facebook, women couldn’t get enough. “We started to really build a community,” she says. Five years later, Proud Poppy Clothing has three stores, an in-house design team, 50 staff and a big Facebook community. Tara never returned to her job as a nurse, and her husband Paul, 40, quit his job to work for the company. As well as a wide range of clothes in sizes 6 to 30, they’ve just launched a swimwear range, and a scrubs range for healthcare workers. “I’ve had women say to me that I might not be a nurse anymore but I’ve saved their life,” says Tara. “My aim is to help women celebrate their bodies.” Full article by Woman's Day
NEVER Miss Another Summer
Why I Created This Collection. “I didn’t create a swim collection to sell swimwear. I created it to sell the confidence to wear it. Without that, we end up missing out on creating fun summer memories at the beach with our families and friends and that’s just not good enough.I want women to flick a switch in their minds and get to a place where they don’t give a sh*t what people think and instead they get out there with their families and friends, and live their best lives and just enjoy themselves. I want women who are self-conscious in swimwear to say goodbye to missing out on those family photos at the beach. To stop being the one behind the camera, filling up family photo albums with pictures they aren’t in. This summer, we’re stepping in front of the camera, embracing every moment, and making unforgettable memories in our swimwear.” - Tara, Proud Poppy Founder Our Swimwear Walk Down Cavill Ave. Before our collection dropped, we put the word out to our Proud Poppy community for volunteers who wanted to come strut their stuff with us down busy Cavill Ave on the Gold Coast, in our swimmers. The response was amazing. The idea behind our walk was to put that ‘flick the switch’ idea into action. Together, we put on our Proud Poppy Swim, grabbed a floatie, pressed play on our pink stereo, and sang our way down Cavill Avenue to the beach front. No F**ks Given. Walking into the water, then walking back to our umbrellas: the part so many of us dread when we’re at the beach. Not anymore. Once we reached the beach after our walk down Cavill Avenue, we turned the discomfort we often feel when at the beach on its HEAD. Together we lined up, held hands with the person next to us, and we walked into the ocean together. We wanted to rewire our brains to focus on having fun and living our lives, not worrying about how we look when we’re doing it. For once, this part isn’t about the journey, it’s about the destination. Just get in the ocean! No f**ks given. Feel the water, laugh the laughs, be part of the memories. Just have FUN! Shoutout to our amazing community who made the day so special for us. Thank you for taking time out of your lives to walk with us WHAT A DAY and WHAT A COLLECTION! Tara & the Proud Poppy team xx
An Iconic Summer - A Full Circle Moment
Tonight's full circle Iconic Summer drop is a crazy full circle pinch me moment, well for me anyway. Let me share a story with you. Ya Ready? Tara wears our Stevie Dress in Candy Stripe Pink/Red Back in the early days, like I'm talking my 4th photos shoot, I had almost run out of all the money I had to put towards getting the business off the ground. I had spent thousand, on products, over the top & catered photo shoots (I had no idea what I was doing), shitty websites that didn't work, multiple models who were paid hundreds of dollars an hour. And guess what? It hadn't worked. Everything I'd worked towards and believed in seemed to be totally delulu because, the business (Proud Poppy) hadn't taken off. I'd lost it all. I had $400 left of mine and Paul's money which was enough for a photographer but that was it. No models, no hair and I did my make up with the dupe foundation I'd bought from Bali that was no where near a colour match. I was so self conscious, nervous and uncomfortable in my own skin. But I had to give things one last crack. And it worked. I look at these photos and I don't see the today me. But I remember who she was. How she felt. She is the reason I started Proud Poppy. Because I knew she couldn't possibly be alone in the worth with how she felt. I was right. Tara wears our Greta Party Dress in Gingham Black Lockdown came around and hit me with another hurdle. We couldn't shoot at all. So we bundled up a bunch of stock and sent it to gorgeous women I'd never met to shoot it at a location I had always dreamed of one day using The Pink Hotel Coolangatta. The photos were pure magic, but bittersweet because it was a dream of mine that I wasn't really a part of. Last week, we shot at The Pink Hotel and I was the model! What in the world?! A far cry from that timid gal that couldn't make eye contact, I was stripping off into outfits and having the time of my life. Literally living a dream! Our Iconic Summer Collection is more that just clothes, it reflects my personal journey over the past few years that so many of you have been a part of. Tara xx Tara wears our Allegra Maxi Dress in Gingham Mix
Eco-Chic: Meet Our Latest Sustainable Fashion Collections
We're excited to introduce our latest collections, and we want to share what makes them truly exceptional. From luxurious fabrics to eco-friendly processes, each piece has been crafted with care, combining style, quality, and sustainability. The Mirage Collection: An exclusive print Our Mirage Collection features an exclusive muted floral print, perfect for transitioning from winter to spring. The higher price point reflects the premium quality of the EcoVero Linen Blend—a fabric that offers not just beauty but a sustainable edge. What is EcoVero? EcoVero is a revolutionary viscose made from sustainably sourced wood, produced with significantly lower environmental impact. Compared to traditional viscose, it uses less water and energy, making it a conscious choice for both your wardrobe and the planet. Fabric Features: Wash & Wear: Durable and soft, EcoVero maintains its structure and texture even after multiple washes, ensuring long-lasting wear. Feel: Lightweight yet substantial, the fabric is soft, breathable, and perfect for year-round versatility. Sustainability: Derived from renewable wood sources, EcoVero’s production uses eco-friendly processes, significantly reducing water and energy consumption. Viscose Crepe: A Luxe Touch We've also introduced Viscose Crepe in our Winter Bloom, Fuchsia, Galaxy, Cobalt, Flores Print, White, and Forest Green collections. This luxurious fabric offers a heavier, more elevated drape with a crepe weave, giving each piece a refined and polished look. Fabric Features: Wash & Wear: The Viscose Crepe holds its shape beautifully, providing a polished silhouette wash after wash. Feel: It boasts a heavier weight and subtle crinkled texture, adding depth and sophistication to every outfit. Why We Choose EcoVero and Viscose Crepe At Proud Poppy, we strive to make mindful decisions. Our use of EcoVero reflects our commitment to sustainability, with a fabric that's as kind to the earth as it is to your skin. EcoVero is biodegradable, produces 50% lower emissions and water impact than generic viscose, and offers a fully traceable supply chain. Why You'll Love It: Traceability: Our supply chain is fully transparent. Lower Impact: 50% less water and emissions than traditional viscose. Eco-Friendly: Made from sustainable, biodegradable materials. Softness: Comparable to silk or cotton, EcoVero is incredibly gentle on the skin.
Teacher Style 101: Dressing Up the Classroom in Comfort and Style - No Matter Your Size
As educators, do teachers adhere to a dress code? How do they navigate the line between professional attire and personal expression? Let's dive into the world of teacher fashion and discover how dressing like a teacher can be both fun and fashionable, regardless of size. Tara - Proud Poppy Founder & Director wears the Tammin Shirt in Happy Place by Kasey Rainbow in a size 16 How Do Teachers Dress? So how do teachers dress? Teachers master the art of balancing comfort and style in their daily attire. With long hours spent in the classroom, comfort is key. Yet, they also strive to inspire their students through their fashion choices. From flowy pants in fun prints, to chic dresses, teachers embrace versatility in their wardrobe selections. At Proud Poppy, we celebrate teachers of all sizes with our diverse range of teacher dresses. Designed with comfort and style in mind, our collection features playful prints by Kasey Rainbow that add a pop of colour to the classroom. Whether you're a size 6 or 30 or anything in between, our dresses are tailored to empower every woman who wears them no matter what body type you are. Discover the Joy of Kasey Rainbow Prints Unleash your inner creativity with our Kasey Rainbow teacher dresses. From whimsical patterns to bold designs, these dresses exude charm and personality. Stand out in the staff room with eye-catching prints that spark conversation and inspire imagination. Comfort is Key Comfort is Key! Long days in the classroom call for attire that prioritizes comfort without compromising style. Our Tammin shirts boast mid-length sleeves, a hi-low hemline, and a flowy silhouette, perfect for all-day wear. Pair them with our Larsa pants, featuring a wide-leg design and elastic waistband for ultimate comfort. Or perhaps dresses is more your thing - step into the spotlight with our Bonnie maxi dresses, available in a plethora of fun prints. Embrace the maxi style with confidence while enjoying the convenience of pockets for storing classroom essentials. Elevate your teacher wardrobe with these versatile and effortlessly chic dresses. Teacher Style and Fashion Teacher fashion is a delightful blend of comfort, professionalism, and personal flair. At Proud Poppy, we empower educators to express themselves through fashion, offering a curated selection of teacher dresses that combine style and functionality. Embrace the joy of dressing like a teacher and make a statement in the classroom and beyond. Teacher Dresses Online Australia For our Australian teachers, finding stylish and comfortable teacher dresses online in Australia has never been easier. Proud Poppy offers a wide range of teacher dresses that cater to all sizes and styles, ensuring that every teacher can find the perfect outfit for their classroom needs. Emily wears the Maddy Linen Blend Midi Dress in Lilac in a size 16 Global Reach and Community From the Aussie classroom to the US classroom and beyond, Proud Poppy extends its reach worldwide, catering to teachers everywhere. Our commitment to inclusivity and diversity transcends borders, as educators from various cultures and backgrounds embrace our brand. Through our global shipping services, teachers from across the globe can access our curated collection of stylish and comfortable attire designed specifically for the classroom environment. Join the Proud Poppy Community Join our amazing Proud Poppy community and showcase your teacher style on our social media platforms. We love seeing educators express their unique personalities through fashion! Tag us @proudpoppyclothing on Instagram for a chance to be featured on our feed and inspire fellow teachers worldwide. Or join our Proud Poppy VIP private Facebook group where our gorgeous community of women are sharing their thoughts and love for their favourite Proud Poppy pieces. Shop our Proud Poppy Teacher Outfit's Collection Need some inspiration? Whether you are a size 6, or size 30, or any size in between, we honestly have you covered here at Proud Poppy. Shop our Teacher's Outfits Collection or if dresses are more your thing, Shop our Teacher's Dresses Collection
"Hey! We're on national TV!" - As seen on Sunrise. Our morning with Sam Mac.
Did you catch us bright and early this morning on Channel 7's Sunrise with weather man Sam Mac? If you happened to be up with the very early this morning, you might have caught a glimpse of the fabulous, that was us - Proud Poppy on Channel 7's Sunrise! Yes, that's right – we were beaming into homes across Australia with the one and only weather man, Sam Mac. Talk about starting the day with a bang! We were were finalists in the prestigious Telstra Business Awards, and were so grateful for the opportunity to be shown on Sunrise. Our fearless leader, Tara, was live on air with Sam Mac and some of our incredible community of women, showcasing what Proud Poppy is all about. And let me tell you, it was a sight to behold! From sizes 6 to 30, we've got something for everyone, and we're not afraid to show it off on the big screen. Tara summed it up perfectly when she described Proud Poppy as an "inclusive women's fashion label." That's right – we're all about celebrating every body, every style, and every woman out there. Whether you're rocking a killer curve or embracing your petite frame, Proud Poppy is about bringing together a community of women, no matter what your size to shop together. "We are a community first brand, and encourage women to live their best lives unapologetically themselves," A quote from Tara, her passion for empowerment evident in every word. Here at Proud Poppy, we're more than just a clothing brand – we're a movement. We believe in lifting each other up, celebrating diversity, and embracing authenticity. After all, life's too short to blend in when you were born to stand out! So, what's next for Proud Poppy, you ask? Well, who knows – the sky's the limit! But one thing's for sure: we'll keep shining bright, spreading positivity, and championing inclusivity in the world of fashion. Thanks for joining us on this wild ride.
Women Changing the World - Meet our founder Tara McKeon
"Why not you? So often we would encourage our friends and peers to put their names forward or to put there hat in the ring for something like this, but step back when it comes to recognising that you too are worthy of a win. So ask yourself, why not you? And just go for it!" - Tara McKeon
Australian fashion label Proud Poppy is on the search for a new print design
Australian fashion label Proud Poppy is on the search for a new print design to feature in its upcoming summer collections. The winner of the Proud Print Project will receive a cash prize of $2,500, with $500 in runner up prizes. It comes following a range of collaborations between Proud Poppy and a range of artists and print designers such as Kasey Rainbow, Dustin Koa and Maggi McDonald. "Supporting up-and-coming creative talent is something that is really important to me,” founder Tara McKeon said. “Incorporating potentially uncovered artistic skills into our newest designs will not only support artists to be seen by eyes on a global scale, but also allows our customers access to art in the form of wearable pieces. “It's a win win for everyone involved and something I am so excited to see come to life.” The creative brief for the competition can be found on the Proud Poppy website, with four print categories to choose from: Boho, Abstract, Conversational and Floral. Entries close at 11:59pm on Sunday, May 5. Upon closure, Proud Poppy will create a shortlist and go out to its community to vote for their pick to put into production. Submissions must include a brief bio on the artist and their creative style, a design statement on their submission, and mood board for the design. The competition is open to anyone over the age of 16, no matter their location. Proud Poppy is a direct-to-consumer brand, selling both online and in standalone stores, two in Queensland and one in Victoria. Its Toowoomba location is currently closed due to relocating. To visit this article, please use this link: https://www.ragtrader.com.au/news/proud-poppy-offers-reward-for-new-print-design
Aussie nurse hailed for ‘saving lives’ with sellout clothes brand Proud Poppy for ‘women of every size’ launches new collection
Following the birth of her son, former emergency nurse Tara knew it was a now or never moment for her business idea. An Aussie emergency nurse whose size-inclusive range has been credited with “saving women’s lives” has launched a new one-of-a-kind collection designed with the renowned First Nations artist Caitlyn Davies. Fashion lover Tara McKeon launched Proud Poppy after she was unable to find anything feminine and pretty that would fit and flatter her size 26 frame. Rather than swathe herself in ugly black leggings or a tent of fabric following the birth of her son Brodie, Tara - who was on maternity leave at the time - knew it was a now or never moment for launching her own business. “I wanted to create a store full of clothes that women of every size could wear,” Tara tells 7Life. “It was selfish in a way as I wanted to find clothes I could wear but, my maternity leave with my son was ending and I knew I had to give it a crack or go back to working nights. I decided, I can do this.” Proud Poppy has gone on to become a best-selling business across the country, with women saying it has been a “life saver” for those who want to look good, whatever their shape or size. The new range - the Dustin Koa Collection - has been created with stylish, conscious women in mind. The beautiful print on the dresses, blouses and trousers was designed by First Nations artist Caitlyn Davies The six pieces in the range tell the story of an area that is special to Caitlyn’s father’s upbringing, and the artwork traces the path from Broken Hill to Menindee Lakes, via Wilcannia, White Cliffs and Packsaddle. The print showcases the beauty of the region, while the purple line on each of the clothing items symbolises the flow of the Darling River. Prices range from $94.95 to $129.95, while 10 per cent of all proceeds will be donated to the Stars Foundation supporting Indigenous girls and young women to attend and remain engaged at school, complete year 12 and move into work or further study. Since launching Proud Poppy in August 2019, Tara has gone from success to success. While she admits it was slow to start, when Tara started stocking sizes upwards of 18, it wasn’t long before word spread and her social media following grew to 133,000 customers. Proud Poppy started principally as an online offering, but bricks and mortar shops soon followed. There are now three in total - two in Victoria and one in Queensland. “Last year we grew 100 per cent year-on-year,” Tara says, adding she was “shocked” by how fast it was happening. She says she now receives an order every 2.5 minutes. “Some of our ranges can sell out within two minutes,” she says. “My husband has quit his job in manufacturing to come on board with the business and we are ploughing everything we earn back into it to grow it even further. “We’ve worked really hard but I never thought Proud Poppy would get to this scale.” Those who have bought from Proud Poppy have waxed lyrical about the clothes and how they make all women feel special and stylish. “Buy one or buy all the dresses,” one reviewer writes. “That perfect dress you’ll find yourself reaching for all occasions. Great for bigger busted girls.” Another adds: “This dress is truly beautiful, and it feels great on too. I got a compliment from my seven-year-old: ‘Mum, you look beautiful, like a princess’. Thank you for making me feel nice about myself.” While a third says: “The perfect show-stopper dress! Makes you feel a million bucks like you just stepped off a fashion runway! Great arm coverage and nice length. Lightweight and comfortable to wear”.Tara has never returned to being an emergency nurse and says she is proud of the feedback she gets from women around the country. “What we do is beyond a dress,” Tara says. “Women comes to us and say this all the time. It blows me away.” Link to article> https://7news.com.au/lifestyle/sponsored/aussie-nurse-hailed-for-saving-lives-with-sellout-clothes-brand-proud-poppy-for-women-of-every-size-launches-new-collection-c-10826450