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Meet Isabella Araujo

Owner and creative director of Brazil Born.

Image description: a woman sits leisurely on a white chair, she wears a loose fitting, pristinely white outfit. Her skin, hair and smile are glowing from the sun, she smiles radiantly at the camera.
Isabella Araujo founder of Brazil Born (Image supplied)

Isabella Araujo is the powerhouse behind Brazil Born, a brand that blends Brazilian beach vibes with activewear that’s as stylish as it is sustainable. Originally from Brazil, Isabella moved to Australia in 2013, on a mission to find the perfect bikini. When she couldn’t, she created her own! With a mix of samba, sunshine, and a love for the ocean, Isabella launched Brazil Born to bring the vibrant energy of Brazilian swimwear to Australia.

A former lawyer turned entrepreneur, she’s fueled by coffee, creativity, and passion. Whether she’s practicing yoga, hiking, or enjoying the Gold Coast beaches, Isabella designs with one goal: to make women feel confident, free, and ready for adventure.

How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I moved to the Gold Coast from Melbourne at the end of 2021. Originally from Brazil, I’ve proudly called Australia home for over 11 years.

Isabella Araujo founder of Brazil Born (image supplied)
Isabella Araujo founder of Brazil Born (image supplied)

What do you love most about the Gold Coast?
While the weather is undeniably amazing, what I love most is what it brings out in people. People are happy, in a good and friendly mood. The lifestyle here is incredible. We’re encouraged to enjoy the day, be healthy, and stay active.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I was born in Brazil with an Italian and Portuguese background. So you could say I’ve got a mix of samba and pasta running through my veins. I am a former lawyer (since 2004) and came to Australia for the first time in 2013. The beach and ocean have always been my happy place—they’re where I feel most alive. Anything that connects me to them fills my soul. For me, staying active and surrounded by nature isn’t just a preference; it’s the secret to staying grounded and inspired.

Although I’m a country girl at heart, I lived my dream life in Balneário Camboriú, Brazil, where office hours ended with windsurfing and paddleboarding sessions in the ocean. These days, I’m lucky enough to call the Gold Coast home, where I’ve crafted a lifestyle that feels just as magical. Staying active is a big part of who I am, whether it’s yoga, pilates, hiking, or pretending I know what I’m doing at the gym. I believe in feeling comfortable and looking great while working out or enjoying the beach. That’s part of what inspires me to design swimwear and activewear for Brazil Born. It’s my baby and my passion—honestly, it doesn’t even feel like work (most of the time).

Image description: a woman wearing a gorgeous white patterned one piece, lays on the sand, in the shallow ocean water.
Brazil Born (image supplied)

Tell us a bit about Brazil Born.
Back in 2013, while living in Melbourne, I found myself on a mission—I couldn’t find bikinis with that iconic Brazilian cut I loved. Fast forward to 2018, now living permanently in Australia, after countless hours of research (and a little trial and error), I returned from a trip to Brazil with extra bikinis stuffed into my suitcase. I started sharing them with friends at my gym, and before I knew it, demand was soaring.

It wasn’t long before I expanded into Brazilian activewear, and that’s how Brazil Born came to life. It’s been an incredible journey full of growth, creativity, and endless passion. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a single thing—it’s been worth every step.

Image description: a woman sits happily on the size of a pool, she's glowing, wearing a stunning black swim suit.
Isabella Araujo founder of Brazil Born (Image supplied)

How is your range different from other brands?
Brazil Born is all about bringing the vibrant energy and unparalleled style of Brazilian swimwear and activewear to Australia. Our pieces are thoughtfully crafted with a focus on quality, sustainability, and ethics—because looking amazing shouldn’t come at a cost to the planet or its people.

What sets us apart is the heart behind every design. We’ve built great relationships with talented Brazilian suppliers, ensuring that every piece reflects the authenticity and craftsmanship Brazil is known for. Over the years, we’ve also started designing exclusive collections locally, blending that unmistakable Brazilian flair with the laid-back, sun-kissed vibe of the Gold Coast.

At Brazil Born, we don’t just create swimwear and activewear; we create confidence. Our mission is to help you feel your absolute best—whether you’re chasing waves, hitting the gym, practicing yoga, or simply soaking up the sunshine.

Brazil Born (image supplied)
Brazil Born (image supplied)

What has been the biggest opportunity and/or challenge so far in launching Brazil Born?
The biggest opportunity was starting the business as an online store in 2018 and maintaining our online presence and customers.

In 2020, we opened a permanent physical store in Sorrento, VIC, which had to close for over seven months due to lockdowns. Having already established an online business kept us afloat during that challenging time.

The biggest challenge has been balancing the need for both online and physical presence. Deciding between online and in-person presence. I loved having a store—it’s hard to beat chatting with customers face-to-face—but online has its own magic too.

Image description: a woman wearing a gorgeous white patterned one piece, lays on the sand, in the shallow ocean water.
Brazil Born (image supplied)

What is the best piece of business advice you’ve ever received?
Building a business isn’t about rushing to the finish line—it’s about growing thoughtfully and sustainably, taking one step at a time.

Every move you make, no matter how small, plays a vital role in the bigger picture. Embrace each moment, celebrate the progress, and always remind yourself why you started. Remember, the process is just as valuable as the destination. Enjoy every step of the ride.

What can we expect from Brazil Born in the next year?
In 2025, we’re all about growth and expansion. Our goal is to collaborate with brilliant, creative minds who share our passion for artistic expression. We’re excited to bring fresh perspectives to the table and build something truly special together.

Expect to see bold new collections that draw inspiration from art, passion, and pure creativity—because we believe fashion should be an expression of who you are and the world around you.

Image description: a woman lies in her bikini in front of a beautiful open water beach
Brazil Born (image supplied)

What are your Gold Coast favourites?
Café:
Commune Café, Paddock Bakery, and Pasture & Co.
Restaurant: Rabbath Lebanese Bistro, Siblings, and Tommy’s.
Bar: Rosella’s and The Exhibitionist.
Beach: Burleigh and Rainbow Bay.

How do you choose to spend your days off?
On my days off,  you’ll always catch me in Brazil Born pieces (of course!). Whether I’m at the beach, doing yoga, hiking, or chasing waterfalls in the hinterland, I’m all about soaking up the natural beauty of the Gold Coast.

Meet Revie Jane

Revie Jane, Alitah State (image supplied)
Revie Jane, Alitah State (image supplied)

Revie Jane is a well-known entrepreneur and content creator on the Gold Coast scene. She has just launched athleisure label, Alitah State. We sat down with her to chat about life, what drew her to fitness and the ins and outs of starting her own label.

How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
Originally from Brisbane, I made the move to the beautiful Gold Coast in 2010. I moved for love – cliche? Yes, but I’m not mad about it. Married for 11 years this year, so the move was a wise decision. I knew I liked the guy I met but, I didn’t know how much I would love the lifestyle on the Gold Coast. The amazing cafes, the coastal breeze, the sunrises, and the people- what wasn’t to love? So, I fell head over heels for the guy and the town and never looked back. Now, with a little family of my own, I couldn’t think of a better place to call home.

Alitah State (image supplied)
Alitah State (image supplied)

What do you love the most about the Gold Coast?
I have been privileged enough to travel to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Maui Hawaii, Aitutaki in the Cook Islands, Miami Beach in California USA, but whenever I’ve returned from these extraordinary places, it reinforces to me that the Gold Coast has the world’s best beaches. The water, the sun, the friendly families you meet along the coast, whose kids start playing with your own; nothing can beat it. Followed closely by the incredible array of restaurants and cafes. We have endless options of cuisines and talented chefs; we are spoilt for choice when date night rolls by.

A huge aspect I love about the Gold Coast is how active you can be while living here, the weather and the sunshine encourages you to get up early, so you don’t miss a beautiful sunrise. I love nothing more than waking up early to hit the pavement and see so many other walkers and runners going up and down Burleigh paths. It’s just such a beautiful atmosphere.

Revie Jane, Alitah State (image supplied)
Revie Jane, Alitah State (image supplied)

Tell us a bit about yourself.
From an early age, I knew that fitness and exercise was not just something that made me physically stronger, it also gave me clarity and improved my mental and emotional wellness. Once I had established this connection, I was passionate about helping others come to that realisation too. So, I started studying fitness, I became a group fitness instructor and started helping women specifically, feel empowered through moving their bodies.

Before I knew it, I had a community of women, who were showing up to group sessions each day and I truly felt like I had found my purpose. It was in 2013 that I opened my own Fitness Studio, CrossFit Babes Miami.

Instagram had just started around this time, and I was an early adopter. I started sharing the highs and lows of owning a business and started amassing thousands of followers. I’ve shown up online and shared parts of my life for the past 10 years. Although some weeks are challenging and I’ve definitely experienced some of the uglier parts of having an online presence, I can say wholeheartedly that being a content creator and having the community I do, has been very fulfilling.

Alitah State (image supplied)
Alitah State (image supplied)

You’ve just launched Alitah State, tell us a bit about this brand.
Alitah State is an athleisure label that is made from sustainable fabrics that is working it’s toosh off to also be size inclusive. We are currently offering sizes 8-18 and hope the by the end of 2023 to broaden.

All Alitah State products are made (with love!) in beautiful Bali, intentionally small batches, from sustainable, high-quality fabrics.

In our first capsule, we are offering four thoroughly thought-out designs in the colour ways latte and rose. Each piece has been tested through high performance workouts, long walks and even hot Pilates. It’s built to withstand it all and ensure you look good while doing it.

Alitah is a name with Old German origins, meaning ‘Strong Woman’, while ‘State’ offers two meanings, to have a specific mindset and to be a part of a community of people who are united by their beliefs and territory.

Alitah State is athleisure with brains and heart.

Alitah State (image supplied)
Alitah State (image supplied)

How did Alitah State come about?
Having fitness as a life pillar, has ensured I’ve tried and tested a massive amount of activewear and it’s become a huge part of my wardrobe. But there have been countless times, I’ve walked into a store or visited a website and exited empty handed because they didn’t have what I was after.

We shouldn’t have to sacrifice practicality for flattering designs. Struggling to find a brand that was ticking all the boxes, I started to get frustrated. Why couldn’t these multimillion dollar corporations care more about their practises? Why weren’t they being more size inclusive? Why are they still packaging their parcels with a bunch of marketing pieces that will go to waste? I got so frustrated I decided to do something about it.

In 2019 I started getting samples from manufacturers in China, and in 2020 I found the manufacturer we are with today located in Bali, Indonesia. Four years of perfecting designs, fabrics and colour ways, Alitah State was born.

Alitah State (image supplied)
Alitah State (image supplied)

What has been the biggest opportunity and/or challenge so far for you in launching Alitah State?
The biggest challenge we have found was finding a manufacturer who provides eco-conscious practises and fabrics while accommodating across broad size ranges. It felt like it was almost one or the other, being size inclusive or eco-conscious. The minimum order of quantities they had were unrealistic for a start-up and so we had to find someone willing to negotiate their starting point or exclude and piss off a large group of people. Luckily, we found the amazing manufacturers we have today, they’re willing to grow with us as we establish ourselves. While we aren’t where we want to be in our size range, I have confidence that we will be able to reach this soon as a matter of top priority.

 

Alitah State (image supplied)
Alitah State (image supplied)

What is the best piece of business advice that you have ever been given? 
In business you’re going to want to give up a lot of times. Whether it’s unhappy customers, finance problems, manufacturing issues, staff conflicts, there is a plethora of problems. The only thing that is going to stop you from giving up as a connection to purpose and something that brings you joy.

A question I asked myself before I studied fitness, was ‘if money wasn’t an issue, what would I spend my time doing?’ Now, I did double-check and sadly, sipping cocktails with a book in hand poolside isn’t a job, *sigh* but, helping people find the bridge between self-respect and fitness was. So, I pursued that. And in some way, I don’t feel like I’ve strayed too far from the desire to share the message that each person is capable of more than they think.

As a busy woman and mother, how do you manage your time to really strike that work/life balance?
I’ve started to accept that balance is a bit of a myth. In my life at least, there are the tiniest blips where there is actual balance. Most of the time though, when my focus and presence is with my kids, my work is behind and if I’m killing it at work, then I’m absent at home. The myth that women can do it all is starting to retire and I am here for that. I can do a LOT but it’s okay to need help, it’s okay to delegate, it’s okay to say, ‘no, I am at capacity.’ We tend to do the things that are the highest priority, and accept that other parts may fall behind a bit. And making peace with that has been revolutionary.

 

Alitah State (image supplied)
Alitah State (image supplied)

How are you planning on spending this Mother’s Day?
Nothing beats morning cuddles in your pyjamas, while your little one cautiously carries you over a cup of coffee and the other little one hands you a present bought from the school Mothers’ Day stall. I am very lucky to have a wonderful husband who makes sure I get something a little more sturdy than some of those gifts and who also gives the gift every mum wants on Mother’s Day. Some me-time.

An hour on the sun bed, reading a fluffy romance is my idea of bliss.

What are your Gold Coast favourites…
Café/coffee spot: Palm Springs and Rafiki
Restaurant: Mr Hizola’s
Bar or place for a drink: Rick Shores
Beach: Miami Beach

How do you choose to spend your days off? 
Where else but the beach? Catching some waves with the kids, finding shells to make sand cakes, reading a book under an umbrella, it’s honestly the best. Our problems seem to melt away when we’re in the ocean, and we find ourselves leaning into gratitude every time our feet hit the sand. There’s no place we’d rather be, than the Gold Coast.

10 Gold Coast labels slaying the fashion game

Sabbi Clothing, Gold Coast (image supplied)
Sabbi Clothing, Gold Coast (image supplied)

Ahh our humble, little ol’ Gold Coast… we’re famous for our food and fab beaches, but what about fashion? Well if we know a thing or two about Gold Coasters, it’s that beating our chest and making a big hoo-ha isn’t really our vibe so you might be surprised to know that some of Australia – and the world’s – most loved fashion brands started right here. Yep, turns out we’re really good at making more than just epic margs.

Here’s our pick of the 10 labels putting the GC on the global fashion map!

Kivari (image supplied)
Kivari (image supplied)

Kivari
What started as a humble stall at The Village Markets has since blossomed into a global brand bringing elevated resortwear to the everyday. So much so that even Saks Fifth Avenue can’t get enough of them – see, it’s not just us! If you aren’t familiar with Kivari’s signature look think ultra feminine meets boho prints and patterns, crafted for the dreamers and the wanderers – it’s giving major holiday energy and we’re here for it.

Olas Supply Co
Inspired by founders Joel & Nicole love of travel as well as the places and people they found along the way, so we guess you could say that Olas Supply Co isn’t just a brand; it’s a lifestyle. They’ve got goodies for the ladies, the lads and even your mini’s so the whole fam can get kitted out in your favourite swag from signature tees to matching sets that have summer written all over it. Designed for life by the ocean, they’re the ultimate for our sunkissed summers.

Olas Supply Co. (image supplied)
Olas Supply Co. (image supplied)

Rhythm
If you don’t already know Rhythm, then are you even really a Gold Coaster? It’s the quintessential surf brand that’s all about the good vibes and great design. From swimwear to clothing, Rhythm have become experts in capturing that laid-back, sun-soaked spirit of the Gold Coast. Consciously created, each and every piece is thoughtful designed with the coastal lifestyle in mind – think endlessly cool and comfortable.

Grace Loves Lace, VIVA Campaign (image supplied)
Grace Loves Lace, VIVA Campaign (image supplied)

Grace Loves Lace
If you’ve ever been a bride or are dreaming of one day being one, we bet you’ve pinned a Grace Loves Lace gown on your Pinterest board. Come on, don’t deny it – they are behind the most pinned wedding gown so you’re not alone. Known for their effortlessly beautiful bridal gowns, Grace Loves Lace has become an icon in the wedding space not just in their home town, but all over the world. They’ve got more than 20 showrooms globally so clearly they’re doing something very, very right. With a focus on comfort, style and individuality Grace gowns are made with movement in mind because ain’t nobody got time to be uncomfortable on their big day! But it’s not just lace they’re all about, there’s so much more – just take a look at their latest collection, an evolution from their signature silhouettes introducing more structured options made from crepes and more, while maintaining their commitment to gowns that move with you.

Peony Swimwear (image supplied)
Peony Swimwear (image supplied)

Peony Swimwear
Peony’s journey from The Village Markets to becoming a world-renowned sustainable swimwear brand has been one of our favourite success stories. Ever since lawyer turned swimwear mogul, Becky Jack, quite her day job to launch the boutique swim brand out of her garage the brand has not missed a beat delivering collections each and every season that make us immediately add to cart. With swim that as luxe and chic as it is eco-friendly, it’s no wonder celebs like Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid approve of this Gold Coast gem.

Isabelle Quinn
Since 2015 Isabella Quinn has been bringing some of our favourite designs to life, think feminine and contemporary silhouettes with a hint of romance. Known for her signature crochet dresses and unmistakably IQ prints with pops of seasonal colours and floral influences because there’s more to life than black, white and beige. This Gold Coast brand has paved their own way and carved a niche in not just the local fashion scene with refined silhouettes in each hand-made piece, but Australian’s all over wanting a piece of IQ because IYKYK.

Isabelle Quinn (image supplied)
Isabelle Quinn (image supplied)

Sabbi
They might be relatively newbies on the fashion scene but boy have they made a splash with their iconic “this senorita needs a margarita” fits – and truly we’ve never related to something more. Cool and quirky by nature, Sabbi was born from a fusion of love for both art and fashion, with all the designs hand-painted by Jase and Ash themselves made for every day life. And what’s more iconic than a fit that can take you from beach to bar? Spoiler: nothing.

Cleo Harper
Fitness meets fashion with Cleo Harper, the activewear brand that’s all about looking fab while breaking a sweat. Known for their flattering cuts and attention to detail, Cleo Harper’s pieces are made to move with you, whether you’re hitting the gym, taking a hot girl walk in Burleigh or just popping out for the farmers market and your caffeine fix – Cleo Harper have got you covered, literally. Designed on the Gold Coast, this label has built a loyal following of women who love workout gear that look as luxe as they feel when you’re wearing them.

Homebodii, Gold Coast (image supplied)
Homebodii, Gold Coast (image supplied)

Homebodii
We don’t think we’re out of turn when we say that Homebodii were the pioneers of lounge and sleepwear, and can you believe founder Ingrid Bonnor did it all from right her? Known for their aesthetic designs, the label has become a go-to for brides with their dreamy robes, pastel prints and lace lined pieces they’ve got everything from custom pj’s for the whole family as well as dreamy lingerie for all occasions. Because why not inject a little romance into your every day life? If you’re a home body looking for something beautiful to slip into, Homebodii’s got your name all over it.

LSKD
Okay so technically these guys aren’t quite Gold Coast grown, but they started their journey just down the road in Logan so we’ll claim them as our own – and their flagship store is right here at Pacific Fair. Never ones to be content with settling for the norm, you’ve probably seen the insane evolution LSKD has been on these past few years and it’s not just us who are big fans – they’ve built a cult following. Functional, design-led pieces are at the forefront of the brand so you’re guaranteed to love the buttery soft fabrics and trend-making silhouettes. They’re on a mission to inspire people to be 1% better every day and let’s just say that’s a whole lot easier when you’re kitted out in their epic fitness apparel.

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski

LSKD (image supplied)
LSKD (image supplied)

Confidence in every stitch

Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

If you’ve strolled through Chevron Renaissance lately, you may have noticed Circa Collective—a boutique for those who crave unique and versatile fashion. Circa Collective first opened as a one-month pop-up, but thanks to rave reviews and a strong following it’s now a permanent resident. This homegrown brand is serving up a fresh, stylish edge—and honestly, we’re here for it.

Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Circa Collective is all about women. The real, fabulous women who juggle a million things and still want to look effortlessly chic. Founder Dora, a Gold Coast fashion veteran with over 30 years of experience (yep, she’s been around the style block), saw an opportunity to create something special for the women of the Gold Coast. After designing handbags in Sydney and working across sales, buying, and production, Dora decided to bring her talents back home. Her vision for Circa Collective? Stylish, timeless pieces that celebrate the individuality of every woman who wears them.

Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Circa Collective is fashion that fits your life (literally and figuratively). Dora knows that real women—busy, active, always on the go—need clothes that look great and feel even better. No more squeezing into something uncomfortable just for the ‘gram! At Circa, you’ll find pieces that are as chic as they are comfy. Whether you’re running errands or sipping cocktails by the pool, these collections are designed to help you live your best life in style.

Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Let’s face it—middle age and menopause come with their fair share of challenges, but style shouldn’t be one of them. Dora noticed that many fashion labels don’t cater to the unique needs of women in their 50s, 60s, and beyond. So, she created Circa Collective to fill that gap. With designs that flatter changing silhouettes, lightweight fabrics that breathe, and cuts that are as chic as they are comfy, the brand is redefining what it means to dress with confidence during this stage of life. These clothes are designed for real women, with real figures, and that’s reflected in the sizing, which ranges from sizes 8 – 16.

Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

And let’s talk about the real magic—small production runs. That’s right, no mass-produced, fast fashion here. Each collection is carefully curated with exclusive prints and colours, so you’re not going to rock up to brunch and find everyone else in the same dress. You’ll be the one getting all the “OMG, where did you get that?” comments which, LBH, is the ultimate fashion win.

Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Circa Collective is more than just a brand—it’s a love letter to the Gold Coast lifestyle. Every piece reflects the laid-back, vibrant vibe of the region, offering timeless styles that are as adaptable as the women who wear them. And it’s not just locals who are in love. Thanks to its prime spot at Chevron Renaissance, tourists from all over Australia and beyond are discovering Circa’s coastal chic.

Oh, and did we mention the staff? They’re not just retail assistants—they’re full-on stylists. So if you ever feel a little lost in the world of fashion (or maybe just life), pop in for a chat. They’ll help you find your new favourite look, and trust us, you’ll leave feeling like a million bucks.

Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Whether you’re stepping into a new phase of life or just looking for something stylish and comfy, Circa Collective is where style meets substance—because confidence never goes out of fashion!

Where: Shop 21G, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise
When: Monday – Sunday 10am-5pm
Website: chevronrenaissanceshoppingcentre.com.au/
Instagram: @chevronrenaissance

Words by Belinda Symons
Images by Mathilde Bouby

STORY SPONSORED BY CHEVRON RENAISSANCE

Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Circa Collective, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
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