All too often we look overseas for fashion trends and take styling advice from those far removed from Australian design. Well, we have many great designers in this country and as a personal stylist who works with many of them, I wanted to share my top picks when it comes to good quality Australian clothing brands that offer style with a focus on sustainability.
ELK
Founded in 2004, this Melbourne based independent label not only offers on-trend items but it has a social conscience too. Brands like ELK only works with small manufacturers who meet their ethical values and are also involved in several charities. In my job as a personal fashion stylist I have introduced many clients to Elk over the years, particularly out of towners.
Leonard Street
If you want something eclectic with colour, here it is. This Melbourne based label has been producing adventurous prints and poppin’ designs since 2004. Founder Amanda McCarthy takes inspiration for clothes design from the imaginative world of children’s stories, folklore and myths and works with factories committed to sustainable and ethical practices, such as no use of single use plastics.
Harlow
Driven by a belief that every woman has the right to find fashion that reflects her personality, Harlow offers clothes in sizes 12-26. The husband and wife team started their business out of a need to find clothing that looks great in sizes that fit plus-size women. Harlow is proudly made and designed right here in Melbourne and I love introducing my Styled by Sally clients to the brand.
Arnsdorf
It’s brave to cease operation due to the poor ethics of an industry, but that’s what Arndorf did in 2012. But realising they could be the change, they started trading again in 2016. Arndorf is the complete set, offering everything in fashion from casual and formal dresses, pant suits, coats and denim, while supporting local businesses like Nelson Made and Holly Ryan who they stock in their stores.
Nelson Made
With a commitment to slow fashion, small-batch model, Nelson Made offer sandals that are unique and stylishly designed. Materials are sourced with the lowest possible environmental and human impact. With a variety of colours, designs and styles, Nelson Made proves that footwear can indeed be made locally.
Kuwaii
This operation exists entirely within 15km of Brunswick in Melbourne to support local jobs and keep valuable trades alive. Kuwaii produces vibrant and quirky styles of jumpsuits, tailored pants, tees, dresses, jackets and footwear. If you want something that screams individual style and MADE IN MELBOURNE check out Kuwaii.
DIIDA
This independent Melbourne label has built its market by offering sophistication and luxury. According to founder, Dimitria Papafotiou, DIIDA is a brand that represents the modern woman in all her forms, on all occasions – strong, chic, incredibly romantic, extremely flirtatious and very seductive.
Well Made Clothes
Their philosophy is simple. Well-made clothing looks better, feels better, and wears better and production of well made clothing minimises harm, empowers individuals and sustains communities. Well Made Clothes is your one stop shop for the best range of ethically made clothing, from dresses, lingerie, knitwear and activewear to jewellery and accessories, shoes and even homewares.
My General Store
Launched in 2016, this Sydney designer is producing small considered collections made from natural fibres in simple shapes. Colours are often earthy while styles are clean. My General Store will appeal to those looking for something subtle and comfortable. Look out for their Pop-Ups in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.
No matter your fashion and style needs (or wants) leading into 2022, you’re bound to find something from my list above that will leave you feeling content with your considered purchase. And if you need more help determining what pieces are for you, please get in touch for more information about our personal shopping and personal styling sessions.
Category: Style Advice
