But soon after they each had their first child, both baby boys, they became frustrated with a lack of choice. They also found the clothes unimaginative and predictable.

The two friends decided to respond to what they saw as a gap in the children's clothing market by designing and making clothes themselves.

Neither had good sewing skills so they turned to their mothers and other seasoned sewers for tips.  

It began as a hobby and quickly became a passion. They do everything themselves from sourcing material, to hand-sewing each garment, to selling it online, at markets and in specialty shops.

Their label is called “Talking Red”, a name with a simple meaning.

“We like talking and we like red,” Ms Taylor said.

Ms Feiss said they made “clothes that have a story”.

“We try to use unique fabrics,” she said.

Materials come from a variety of sources – House of Cloth in Bendigo, op shops and online sellers Ebay and Etsy. The clothes they make are mostly bottom-halves for boys and girls – leggings, pants, jeans and shorts

The patterns and colours are a clear departure from the gender-specific pinks and blues so often found in mainstream stores.

“We don’t want it to scream boy or girl,” Ms Taylor said.

She said their latest pants for girls were yellow and navy. 

Ms Taylor said she and Ms Feiss prided themselves in making “long-wear” clothes.

Pants are designed with a fold at the bottom, which can be let down as the child grows. Having given birth to baby girls this year, it’s hard to imagine how the mothers have time to produce clothes for a fashion label.

“People are shocked what we get done,” Ms Feiss said.

Ms Taylor said the secret was to be productive while the children slept.

"That's why it works, because the children sleep," she said.

“If you want something done, ask a busy person.”

Visit the website talkingred.com.au