By Felicity Bonello

When you consider that locally made clothes are better for the environment, simplify the supply chain, are more transparent in the production process, and create local jobs (which in turn supports our local and national economy), it’s worth knowing which Australian fashion brands are manufactured right here.

A.BCH

The fine folk behind A.BCH understand that the ethical reputation of the fashion industry is questionable, which is why their circular fashion business model is a welcome departure from the global air and water pollution, waste, and human and animal mistreatment found in other areas of the industry. Made ethically in Australia from organic, recycled, and traceable materials, A.BCH have made it their mission to offer a simple solution to a complex problem by working to a circular fashion standard. Best of all, their classic designs are made to last.

Bassike

We love Bassike. Striding ahead of the industry with their sustainable business and production practices, they were one of the first brands to use organic cotton, have recently achieved B Corp status which is no mean feat and produce their garments in Australia. Since the brand’s inception in 2006, Bassike have offered high quality, sustainably sourced wardrobe essentials with a focus on longevity. And while over the years the brand has expanded to include swimwear, footwear, accessories, and a mini line, it has always maintained its foundation of considered design, responsible business, and sustainable manufacturing. 

Bianca Spender

Operating a responsible fashion business that puts people and the planet first, Bianca Spender is 100 per cent made in Australia and is Ethical Clothing Australia Accredited. Pledging to focus on the brand’s energy consumption, supply chains, worker welfare, and environmental impacts, the brand’s eponymous leader is an advocate for keeping manufacturing onshore in Australia. From the outset, this brand has been deeply committed to holistic responsible business practices and to supporting the local Australian manufacturing industry. All garments are designed and manufactured in Sydney.

Clothing The Gaps!

A social enterprise that produces merch with a meaning. Clothing The Gaps is an Aboriginal-owned, Victoria-based streetwear label made in Australia. Created to influence and unite Indigenous and non-Indigenous people through fashion and causes, the brand sells gender-neutral, quality clothing to fund and support Clothing The Gaps Foundation. Relaxed fit and easy to wear, each design is screen printed by local artists. Accredited by Ethical Clothing Australia, the start-up became B Corp certified in March this year. Check it out!

Citizen Wolf

Citizen Wolf is onto something big. Using their award-winning Magic Fit® algorithm, they use your height, weight, and age to create ethical, made-to-order tees, polos, and sweats right here in Sydney. Because they have zero inventory, they have zero waste, and zero garments are sent to landfill (of course if you need an alteration made, they’ll do this for you free of charge). This brand, like many of those listed here, are accredited by Ethical Clothing Australia. Lead time takes about 10 days, but with 48 per cent less carbon used, it’s worth the wait.

Denimsmith

If you’re after denim that’s handmade in Australia, look no further than Denimsmith. Proudly accredited by Ethical Clothing Australia, Denimsmith launched in 2015 as a collaboration between veteran Australian designer Leonie Rutherford and maker Vinh Le, both committed to the ethical production of high-quality denim.  Instead of a seasonal collection, Denimsmith builds on a range of styles (think skinnies, cropped, flares and straight legs) in a range of great colours for both women and men. They offer free tailoring on any pair of Denimsmith jeans, and if you’re after something unique to you, a custom option is also available.

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