A Q&A with Michelle from MCC Manufacturing

Hi! I’m Michelle McClure, I was born in the Philippines and moved to Australia when I was four. Growing up, I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to be or study, but I always knew I wanted to work in the creative industries. I discovered fashion at TAFE, where I learned the practical skills needed for the industry. After working in the manufacturing industry for over 10 years, I started my business, MCC Manufacturing, in 2021 in my double garage-turned-studio. 

Now based in Annerley, Brisbane, I’m proud to have expanded in April 2024 into a shared space with another accredited business, Ethical Edge Collective. At MCC Manufacturing, we focus on ethical and transparent garment production, collaborating with amazing Australian fashion labels. When I’m not in the studio, I love exploring new ideas and technologies. 

I’ve been in the sewing and manufacturing industry for over a decade, and it’s always felt like a natural fit. Growing up, I didn’t have a clear idea of what I wanted to do, but I was drawn to creative industries. When I discovered I could study fashion at TAFE, it opened a world of practical skills and opportunities that aligned with my passion for creating and problem-solving. 

This wasn’t a path passed down through family tradition—I discovered and fell in love with it on my own. Over time, I’ve realised how much I value working with my hands to produce something tangible and meaningful. It’s incredibly rewarding to see ideas come to life and know that my work helps other brands achieve their vision. 

Thank you! Being accredited with Ethical Clothing Australia is both an honour and a responsibility. It’s a testament to our commitment to ethical practices and a reflection of the values that guide our business. This accreditation shows our clients and community that we prioritise fair treatment, transparency, and sustainability in every aspect of our work. 

For me, it’s a reminder of why I started MCC Manufacturing in the first place: to create garments that not only meet high standards of quality but also positively impact the people and processes behind them. It’s about proving that ethical fashion is not just a possibility but a necessity for the industry’s future.