shop owner tanya stevanovic

About fifteen years ago Tanya Stevanovic and one of her friends were visiting the vintage clothing store Pretty Dog in Newtown. When they learnt that it was for sale they decided to buy it. Over the years Tanya introduced emerging fashion brands into the vintage mix. A few years later she bought out her friend and focussed on up-and-coming labels. Today the boutique stocks brands such as Dion Lee, House of Holland and Karen Walker.

Tanya has also moved Pretty Dog a few doors down from its original location. It's now in a terrace that showcases a great selection of industrial design pieces. Her partner is an avid collector, and has gone so far as to source the lighting from France. The Union Jack flag is a nod to his English heritage.

Which five words best describe you? I find this question very hard to answer. So I asked friends. Amazing, inspirational, positive, fashion-forward and funny.

How did you get your career start and what path have you taken since? I had always wanted a career in fashion. So it was easy. I am so happy to have cultivated an iconic boutique.

What’s the best lesson you’ve learnt along the way? Business is never predictable.

What’s your proudest career achievement? There are many great achievements. Pretty Dog is in Sportswear International's "the world's best boutiques" volume 4. That was nice to see.

What’s been your best decision? Moving Pretty Dog from 1a Brown street to the beautiful terrace at number 5 Brown street.

Who inspires you? Jess Scully and Karen Walker. Two amazing women who are so driven and focussed.

What are you passionate about? Getting dressed! And dressing women! Putting together an outfit that makes a woman feel amazing!

Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet? Sophia Loren. I love her.

What dream do you still want to fulfil? Having an amazing lifestyle concept store that is totally unique.

What are you reading? The last book I read was The thread by Victoria Hislop.

images daily imprint/natalie walton