Career-change gamble pays off for Townsville fashionista

NATASHA van-vegchel was on maternity leave with her second son when she took the plunge and started an online clothing store that has since expanded into an international market.

The 38-year-old launched her business Rose Lane Clothing three years ago while working at the Department of Natural Resources Mines and Energy as an operations support officer, as she felt Townsville was “lacking options”. “I wanted to do more with my life. I had a good job and worked with great people but wanted to love my job and just decided to start it,” Ms van-vegchel said.

“I had always been a girly girl, this was a way to express that feminine side as I have two sons.

“When I was little I used to love watching my mum get dressed up and my whole life have loved watching people and seeing what they wear and how they wear it, it’s always been a passion of mine.”

Ms van-vegchel resigned from her government job in January to manage her business full-time due to growing demand.

“It’s getting bigger every year and we have started selling in New Zealand as well,” she said.

“It’s just an amazing feeling to be honest. I feel proud to know that I did it with two kids and a defence partner who works away a lot.

“It’s a feeling of accomplishment, I Iove to help people and see how much they love their clothing”

Her secret to success is “following your dreams” and to “believe in yourself”.

You can head to the website here: https://www.roselaneclothing.com.au/.