Dannii Minogue, at 5’2″ busts all work-life myths as the singer, actress, X Factor Australia judge and mother has conquered just about everything and is getting set to launch her Petites range for Target. We chatted to the super-mum about work, motherhood and all things fashion.
RESCU: Tell us about your latest collaboration with Target…
Dannii Minogue: I have designed a range of clothes called Petites that is especially for Petite ladies ranging in sizes 4-16. I am 5’2” and it is incredibly exciting for me, as I have spent a lifetime altering clothes to fit! These alterations are time consuming and costly, and you definitely need an eye for design to get the fit right.
RESCU: You’re often photographed in local and international designer gear — what made you decide to create a range for Target?
Dannii Minogue: Target is an iconic Australian brand. I have grown up with Target. They have an incredible team and due to their volume of product and huge reach across the country, they have the manufacturing strength that I could have only dreamed about during production of my label, Project D, in London.
RESCU: Where did you find inspiration and fresh ideas for the range?
Dannii Minogue:: I am always inspired by old Hollywood glamour. I always prefer timeless style over fast moving trends. I looked at every piece of clothing in my wardrobe that I love and have moulded to fit me, and we used these as a starting point. I get excited by fabric swatches and love the creative process of working with the Target team to make every dress fit and feel amazing.
RESCU: How have you ensured the pieces are distinctively different from those in your Project D range?
Dannii Minogue:: I had to alter all of my Project D samples to fit my petite frame, but the styles were elegant shapes that both Tabitha and myself loved. We believed that showing less was always more amazing!
The distinct difference is that I am designing for a petite frame. Certain seams and fabric choices can make a dress or outfit elongating. I know all the tricks, and will be using every single one of them. The price is a major difference. Target is able to achieve the incredible quality I want with their manufacturing power and delivering an unbelievable price. Prices range from $20-$99.
RESCU: You already had a lot on your plate with X Factor, Project D and, of course, a son. How do you decide which new projects are worth it?
Dannii Minogue: Work has to balance with my personal life, and Ethan always comes first. I am very organised and have to work efficiently to make it run smoothly.
RESCU: You became a famous for your singing but have since made a name for yourself as an actress, television and radio personality, and fashion designer. Have all these different hats intermingled?
Dannii Minogue: Yes, I love the diversity. I guess Young Talent Time played a huge role in allowing me to try different things – from singing to dancing and designing my own clothes. I also got to direct some of the performances, and all of that experience I use with mentoring my contestants on The X Factor. The film, television and theatre acting has given me huge pleasure, and the radio gigs have felt natural. I am always at home in a live studio environment. The stages, lights and microphones feel like a security blanket after all these years!
RESCU: How do you juggle single motherhood and your work commitments? Any advice for women trying to do the same?
Dannii Minogue: You can have it all, but you can’t do it all. By saying that, I mean that some things have to be delegated in order to make it all work. It is a constant juggle, but I am blessed with a healthy boy who is really easy and fun to look after.
RESCU: What’s next for Dannii Minogue?
Dannii Minogue: Another X Factor win would be amazing! Team Minogue 2014!!
Dannii Minogue’s Petite’s range for Target launches nationally on the 7th August 2014.
Image credit: Dannii Minogue Instagram @DanniiMinogue
