Operations Manager, Maddi Downes, is our go-to-gal for all things stock! Maddi is always ready, in her trademark blazer, to assist the team however she can. When Maddi isn’t busy in the Samantha Ogilvie office, you will find her working on her home renovations, relaxing at her parent’s farm or enjoying lunch out with friends.

 Read on to learn more about Maddi…

How long have you been with Samantha Ogilvie?
I have been at Samantha Ogilvie for one year. I started in November last year so my one year has come around very quickly!

What do you do at SO?
I look after all stock management – getting our new stock shipments in and ready to go on the store floor and online – as well as assisting Sam and the team with buying each season.

Why do you love what you do?
I have always been super into fashion so operations at a fashion boutique is always what I wanted to do.

I love seeing the clothes and trends of upcoming collections and working with amazing, like-minded people who are all as into fashion as I am.

A bit about your background and what brought you to Samantha Ogilvie?
I came from a background in marketing and advertising and was working for an agency in Brisbane. I put it out to the universe that I would love a role in fashion and when this opportunity became available, I jumped at it! It was the perfect role at the perfect time.  

What has been your proudest moment at Samantha Ogilvie Boutique?
One of my proudest moments was preparing the pop-up sale earlier this year and that it ran smoothly.

What do you think are this season’s essential items or trends?
Coming into Resort ‘23– I’m thinking about colour and print. I’m a big blazer girl but I am ready to put the blazer away for a couple of months and embrace the boxy t-shirt vibe.


@alemais

What is something you can never get enough of?
I’ve got two things – a white t-shirt and a blazer – any colour, every colour.

Which blazer style are you loving at the moment?
The checked Veronica Beard Beacon Dickey Jacket in Camel - I think that is a classic. Also, the Oversized Raw Edge Blazer from FRAME.

What is the hardest-working piece in your own wardrobe and what do you love styling it with?
My black blazer. Styled with a pair of denim – any colour but mainly blue.

What is your favourite denim cut this season?
The Grace by SLVRLAKE and the Le Jane by FRAME.

What item in your own wardrobe is most special to you, and why?
A pair of silver, sequin pants that I wore to a ball and can’t wait to wear again.

What is inspiring you at the moment?
We are almost finished renovating our house, so I have been looking at Pinterest for inspiration. I’m already dreaming of our next home project as I have really developed my personal style and can envision what I want.

What are your favourite brands at SO?
Alice & Olivia – LOVE – super bright and super fashion forward. Their pieces look amazing!

Also, FRAME – because everyone needs a good pair of denim and a classic white tee.

Who are your style influences?
For an everyday casual vibe, Hailey Beiber. I’ve got Hailey Beiber nails on right now!

Then for more of a sophisticated look I am obsessed with Rosie Huntington-Whitely. I think she is gorgeous – her mannerisms, the way she presents herself, and what she is wearing – stunning.

@rosiehw

What do you love to do in your me-time?
I like to go out to lunch with my friends. I love socialising.

Favourite Instagram accounts?
@josefinehj - Josefine is from Copenhagen and has a really cool aesthetic. Amazing clothes. Definitely one of my faves.

 
@josefinehj

Favourite travel destination?
Positano. I went there in 2018 with all my friends and it was so fun. I would love to go back with my partner Matthew for a different experience.

Anywhere on your travel wish list?
New Zealand – I have never been but am planning a trip for July next year.

Favourite Brisbane restaurants/café/bars, and what do your order?
I have two favourite Brisbane restaurants - the first one is sAme sAme. I have never had a bad experience – the service and food are always top-notch. I get the chicken bao, they are an absolute must if you go there. 

@same.same.restaurant

Second, is Beccofino for traditional, wholesome, good Italian. I order the duck ragu.

@beccofinoteneriffe

Favourite place to spend a day off?
My parents farm in Christmas Creek.

The best thing about working in the James Street precinct?
The vibe around here. Especially on a Thursday and Friday lunchtime. I honestly think that’s the best thing – it’s just so special.

The best thing about living in Brisbane?
The lack of traffic – and all my friends are here.

A must-do for those visiting Brisbane?
Head to the James Street precinct – that’s an absolute must – and visit Samantha Ogilvie.