Stephen Todd

Stephen Todd’s journey as a writer began in Paris during the early 1990s, where he immersed himself in the intersecting worlds of fashion, architecture, and design. His sharp insights and eloquent voice found a home in prestigious publications such as The New York Times, The Guardian, The Australian, Le Monde, and a range of influential magazines, including Wallpaper and Fantastic Man. In 1998, Todd cemented his mark on the cultural landscape with the launch of Numéro, a cutting-edge fashion and culture magazine that continues to set industry standards.

Beyond journalism, Todd has played a pivotal role in shaping creative narratives. Acting as an editorial consultant to prominent publishing houses like Emap in the UK and Excelsior in France, he later founded the Paris-based boutique branding agency concept+image in 2005. There, he worked with high-profile clients such as Woolmark, Moët & Chandon, and Swarovski. His tenure as Global Director of Branding & Communication at Swarovski (2008–2010) saw him orchestrating collaborations with leading figures in fashion and design, from Giorgio Armani and Vivienne Westwood to Konstantin Grcic and Nendo.

Since returning to Australia in 2010, Todd has continued to influence the creative industries as the Design Editor of the Australian Financial Review and as Creative Director of Sydney Design Week. His expertise in strategic communication and branding remains sought after by architects, designers, and institutions, solidifying his role as a central figure in contemporary design discourse.

Photo: Jamie Morgan