Australian fashion is known for a few things. With a relatively warm climate and outdoor lifestyle, it tends to be more relaxed and less formal than elsewhere in the world. Palettes are often inspired by Australia’s untouched landscape, while the country’s coastlines influence fabrics to be lightweight and breathable.
In line with the rest of the world, Australian fashion is also becoming more sustainable and inclusive. There’s a growing focus on ethical sourcing, recycled materials and organic fabrics, as well as clothing styles that cater to all body types and are modelled by people of all ethnic backgrounds.
So, what are some of the Australian fashion brands to have on your radar? We’re rounding up some of our favourites here.
Sir
Sir was founded by Nikki Campbell and Sophie Coote in 2014, who aimed to fill a gap in wardrobes with minimal, elevated pieces they could pop in their suitcase and travel with. The brand stocks ready-to-wear pieces, accessories and swimwear, all designed for women chasing summer or who want to feel like they’re on an endless holiday.
Bassike
Bassike is one of Australia’s oldest fashion labels, started in 2006 by Deborah Sams and Mary Lou Ryan. The pair had a vision of creating everyday pieces that looked and felt luxurious and used sustainably-sourced materials. The brand is for both men, women and children, with collections including clothes and accessories.
Matteau
Matteau was founded by sisters Ilona Hamer and Peta Heinsen in 2015. The name is a combination of the words “matte” and “eau”, which is French for water. The brand is best known for its swimwear, but it also stocks clothing, including midi dresses with gathered skirts, drawstring trousers and crew neck cashmere jumpers.
Faithfull
Faithfull is the brainchild of Australian-born Sarah-Jane Abrahams and Norwegian-born Helle Them-Enger. The duo launched it in 2014, with the intent of evoking a sense of summer in the everyday. Collections include classic pieces in a single colour alongside others with colourful, bold patterns.
Venroy
Now an international celebrity favourite, Venroy started in 2010 with a collection of 60 men’s boardshorts, European-length, which wasn’t common at the time. Its founder Sean Venturi had grown up in Sydney’s Bondi, which gave him the inspiration for the brand’s ‘holiday state of mind’ ethos. The brand stocks men’s and women’s leisurewear.
St Agni
St Agni was founded by husband-and-wife Lara and Matt Fells in Byron Bay, an area known for a slower pace of life. Launched in 2014, the brand initially focused on footwear before expanding into apparel. Clothes are designed with the philosophy ‘less is more’, keeping versatility and longevity in mind.
Posse
Fashion design graduate Danielle Mulham launched Posse in 2016, wanting to create clothes that bridged the gap between coastal, relaxed and elevated. Sofia Richie, Lily Collins and Meghan Markle are just a few big names who’ve worn the brand. Pieces are made from sumptuous fabrics like crochet knit, hand-loomed cotton and premium linen.
Dissh
Dissh started as a standalone multi-brand boutique in Australia’s Queensland in 2001. Maree Henry was its founder, but the brand’s now owned by her daughter Lucy Henry-Hicks, who started working for it straight after high school. The brand is best known for its matching sets, linen dresses and knits.
