Discover Dref, one of Melbourne’s best kept fashion secrets

Melbourne designer Tania Hanna is one of the city’s best kept fashion secrets. For over 30 years Tania has been designing and producing amazing garments for some of Australia’s best brands, but now she is stepping into the spotlight with her new label Dref. 

“After years of working behind the scenes designing for others, staying intentionally unseen I reached a moment of truth,” Tania explains. “I could no longer separate the work from the woman. Dref was always personal, but private.

“It began as dref.by.d, a quiet expression of my design values: structure, texture, movement.”

THE BACKGROUND

Tania’s expertise in design, manufacturing, and brand development has made her a trusted partner to fashion houses, emerging designers, and global factories alike, and she was the power behind the recent expansion of a well-established Menswear sports label to include a Women’s range.

“This collection superseded their existing line within two years. With current distribution in over 50 countries, my work was paramount in growing the company’s sales through enhanced quality, design and cost savings,” says Tania. 

After deciding to launch her own label in 2020, Tania chose to name the brand after her father, Fred, describing it as “wearing his legacy”. “The watch, the ring, symbols of the man behind the name,” she says. “A daughter’s honour. A new beginning.” 

BUILT ON INTENTION

According to Tania, Dref is a “brand built on intention” and clarity.

“[It is about] the belief that clothing should express who we are without saying a word. Each collection reflects lived experience designed with precision, purpose, and quiet confidence,” explains Tania.

“We don’t follow trends. We honour women’s lives through refined form, fluid movement, and timeless strength. We’re not just dressing a body. We’re supporting a story. This is more than fashion. This is personal.”

Dref garments are beautifully made with considered details, excellent fit and quality fabrics that range from linen to lightweight cottons and elegant wool blends. Each garment is embellished with the brand’s signature grosgrain trim that adds a refined contrast to each piece, a couture-style touch that elevates Dref from clothes to fashion.

SUSTAINABILITY AT THE FOREFRONT

Dref is also focused on sustainable practices, with Tania working on continuing to improve the brand’s sustainability ratings.

“Whilst Dref is made offshore, unlike many labels, I have worked with my manufacturers over decades and have built a trusting and reliable relationship based on the need for ethical production and an evolution towards sustainability,” says Tania. 

“Ensuring ethical working conditions across all aspects of our business is a top priority. Each garment is meticulously crafted to ensure quality, durability and longevity.”

Tania explains that the brand’s manufacturing team holds a range of important sustainability certifications, including BSCI Certification, BCIGOTS Certification, ISO 9001 Certification, Amfori BSCI and Global Standard Recycling. 

“Rather than creating large fashion collections, the brand is exploring pre-sale models and limited runs,” she explains. 

“New initiatives to connect with our community more intimately have commenced this season, engaging with our customers to allow them to choose the colours and styles that they would like to add to their wardrobe. We invite them into the studio for feedback as well as allowing the client to try, feel and experience the primarily online brand first hand.” 

You can experience Dref firsthand at our Exclusive Collection Launch event on Sunday 19 October. Enjoy an intimate runway show, a unique styling experience by Tania and her staff and purchase pieces on the same day. Sip a glass of bubbles and plan your new season wardrobe. Complimentary drink on arrival and ticket price of $20 redeemable on purchase.

BUY TICKETS: www.trybooking.com/DFXMC

For more information about Dref, go to dref.com.au and follow the brand on Instagram at @dref.official