Hilde Bennett-Heim

Dr Hilde Bennett-Heim is a Lecturer in the School of Design at Queensland University of Technology (QUT), within the Faculty of Creative Industries, Education & Social Justice. She holds a PhD from QUT and brings extensive industry experience in fashion design, visualisation, and entrepreneurship.

Her educational background includes a PhD from Queensland University of Technology.

Hilde's research focuses on the intersection of small-scale fashion entrepreneurship, sustainability, and fashion technology. Her work explores how independent designers navigate urban fashion ecosystems, the rise of artisanal fashion, and the role of media in shaping public perception. She applies expertise in illustration, styling, and digital design to both teaching and research. A key interest is the application of blockchain for transparent fashion supply chains, as seen in her project Fashion Spin.

Her recent publications analyze the challenges and opportunities for independent fashion designers in urban contexts, the cultural significance of artisanal fashion, and the often contradictory media portrayals of local designers. These works reflect a strong interdisciplinary approach, bridging design, sociology, and business.

• Award winning designer

Hilde is actively engaged in research and supervision. She has served as Chief Investigator on projects related to fashion innovation and sustainability. Her industry affiliations include membership in the Australian Fashion Council and participation in the Industry and Skills Building Australia (IBSA) Industry Reference Committee, linking her academic work with national policy and workforce development.

She is involved in initiatives that connect academic research with real-world fashion industry challenges, particularly in sustainability and ethical production. Her work bridges creative practice, academic scholarship, and industry engagement.