Fraser McEwing, the founder of Ragtrader, passed away over the weekend aged 86.
Over 52 years ago, he founded this fashion trade publication and led the masthead for 20 years.
Despite leaving Ragtrader officially in 1992 to tackle further writing endeavours, Fraser McEwing continued to write for the publication on commission, sharing his trade insights on the fashion industry in both online and in print.
The industry gathers today to share their memories.
Cue founder Rod Levis said: “Fraser bravely opened up a testament to the fashion industry just after ‘fashion’ was being reborn in the late 60s.
“It was a time of the emergence of a new youth overhaul of what had previously been an industry for ‘women’ with little that was different for the expanding role of women in the workforce, and particularly in the areas of higher education.
“Fraser drove the news, finding stories, supporting new companies as they arrived on the market… retail, manufacturing, people, overseas trends… all were part of the eclectic mix that was Ragtrader from the earliest issues.
“Fraser certainly had a major impact on my business mirroring our growth from the very beginning... His name will remain an icon in the history of Australian fashion."
Former Myer CEO and Kariba Retail Group chair Bernie Brookes: "Fraser was always synonymous with Australian fashion- from his early days with Australian Fashion News, through to founding and running Ragtrader for over 20 years.
"Such a contribution in any field of journalism is unique these days as the digital world fragments the traditional skills of journalism. A strong advocate for Australian fashion for many years, an editor of enormous credibility and a true friend of the industry. His contributions will be missed."
SABA founder Joe Saba said: "Fraser made a significant contribution to our local industry, always shining a positive and supportive light on Australia’s ‘ragtrade’. He was a dedicated and passionate supporter to Australia’s emerging fashion brands and our fashion related industries."
Lee Manfred, founder of Lee Manfred Public Relations said: “I met Fraser as a young woman being freshly appointed as Marketing Manager for Martin & Savage Fabrics. Fraser had just started Ragtrader and worked on a manual typewriter at the back of a printing shop.
“How fast Ragtrader and Ragtrader placements grew. It was the industry 'bible' - we all subscribed and advertised our goods. Fraser grew to become a fashion legend. Everyone knew him and respected his journalism. More importantly we respected him. Plus, in those days, we worked hard but also, somehow, had the opportunity to have fun.
“Fraser thanks for the memories, thanks for being such an important contributor to our industry. Dance in the stars and, I suspect, you'll take time out to write a few novels!”
Former editor-in-chief Harper’s BAZAAR and fashion editor at The Sydney Morning Herald, Kellie Hush said: “Fraser was a true publishing pioneer and a game changer in the Australian fashion industry.
“As a young journalist with a passion for fashion I was hungry for industry news and Ragtrader provided an insiders viewpoint I couldn’t find anywhere else. I devoured it.
“As a journalist, Fraser never shied away from tackling a subject head on - such a rarity today.”
Managing director of textile wholesaler Martin & Savage, David Tinworth said: "Fraser was well known through the industry, and had a long relationship with Martin and Savage, my father always spoke very highly of him.
"I remember from my early days back in the 80’s, Fraser would come to our office quite regularly and sit with Dad talking about the industry and the coming trends for the following season, and I’m sure any other industry news he might be able to pick up on.
"He was always very supportive of Textile Wholesalers, and the role they played in the 'Ragtrade'.
"Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time."
Garland & Garland founder Pheobes Garland said: "In an industry of big egos, Fraser was the most self-depreciating person you would ever come across. Sydney people used to turn straight to the back pages of the social pages in the 90’s of the Daily Telegraph.
"For us, we would always pick up Ragtrader and head straight to Fraser’s column relying on his in-depth and highly astute observations of many years in this tough cyclical industry. Your column and wonderful humour will be much missed. May you rest in peace."
Former Ragtrader sales manager and founder of Fashion Forecast Services, Sharon Rae said: “I had the good fortune to join Ragtrader in 1984 and, to find myself working for a man who was passionate about the fashion industry, publishing Ragtrader and Menswear trade magazines and a specialised rag trade employment agency.
“He managed a team of 97 per cent women from two Surry Hills terraces, an art room in another terrace at the rear and printed around the corner by his partner Laurie, along with an office (in another terrace) based in Carlton, Melbourne. Keeping fit was easy between running up and down three flights of stairs in two terraces and down the lane to the art room.
“Fraser loved to play the piano. He spent many lunch breaks tinkling the ivories to improve his already serious keyboard skills, no-one dared to interrupt him during his ‘lesson’ time, this was his escape from all the women in his 9-5 work day, not that many days were 9-5, deadlines always meant extended hours and no-one minded.
“I consider myself extremely fortunate that I walked through the mission brown door of 437 Riley Street, Surry Hills in 1984 and met a man who for decades has encouraged, believed in me, and, more importantly became someone I treasure and called a friend.
“I will miss our chats, the laughter and the love, forever in my heart. THANK YOU FRASER.”
Yaffa Media managing director Tracy Yaffa said: “Over the past 50 years Fraser has been many things to the Yaffa titles; a fierce competitor, earnest advisor, stalwart contributor and much loved colleague.
"His generosity of spirit, both in the time he gave and the knowledge extended was immeasurable. Always quick with a smile and a wicked sense of humour. I am just one of the many people who had the absolute privilege to learn so much from this gentleman.
“My heart goes out to Michelle and family. Vale Fraser.”
Fraser McEwing is survived by his wife, Michelle, and his extended family.
A funeral will be held for Fraser in Bowral on Wednesday.
Do you have a story to share about the late Fraser McEwing? Email us at ChristopherKelly@yaffa.com.au.