In part II of the series, you’ll find my continued list of local labels that love the planet (N-Z). If you missed the first part, you can read it here. It brings me much joy to share the journeys of such inspiring brands doing their very best for the planet and its people in the realm of fashion. Though these labels may come with a higher price tag, it really is the true cost of fashion. If supporting such fashion is beyond your budget, my hot tip is to look for pieces by these brands on reselling sites such as Depop and Facebook Marketplace. And don’t forget, you can always go thrifting at your local second-hand stores…
N A G N A T A
Nagnata‘s cult following is for good reason. It’s a brand that stands for sustainability, inclusivity and activism through art. Effortlessly chic, it can be worn from the studio to the street. Sister design-duo Laura May and Hannah Gibbs intended for these lines to be blurred, to have genderless options and to focus on Movements not Seasons. Their work is colourful and bold, blazing the trail for sustainable fashion. Shop their iconic knitwear aesthetic here.
O P I A
Another Byron brand, Opia is recognisable by its classic cuts, ethical fabrics and feminine silhouettes. It was dreamt up with the intention to create simple, delicate pieces for everyday wear that suit all shapes and sizes. Above the changing trends, the garments are designed to be timeless. What started as handmade in Byron Bay has now progressed to offshore production with a beautiful Indonesian family who make the clothes from natural fibres in small batches. The family-run team is paid above ward waves in a clean and light filled working environment. ​The offcuts and excess is donated to the local community to be created into wares that are sold at the local markets. Order online and you will receive your beautiful garments in compostable bags.
O U T L A N D D E N I M
This brand is the pioneer of ethical denim production. No corners are cut by the founder James Bartle, who came up with the idea to produce denim pieces after learning about the horrors of human traffikking. It became his mission to provide these victims with a job. With his love for denim and cowboy spirit, the idea to make denim clothing was born. But after learning about the ugly side of the fashion industry, James and his band of Outlanders sought more sustainable raw materials and developed their own wash house to avoid polluting the Earth through their endeavours. Fast forward and Outland Denim is the first Australian, and second denim brand globally, to become B Corp certified. Sustainable superstars such as Australian actress, model and activist Isabel Lucas have represented the brand. If there was ever a pair of jeans worth the investment, it’s these.
P I N K Y A N D K A M A L
Another amazing activewear brand on the scene, Pinky and Kamal is the product of designer Natalie Carusi. Her comfortable, sustainable and stylish pieces were born from her work in fashion design and later discovered love for yoga. As you wear the pieces, you’ll be inspired to not only move your body, but look after your mind. Mantras such as ‘Disconnect to reconnect’ and ‘Move your body, calm your mind’ are featured on their pieces. Carusi has chosen for her activewear to be hand-made and hand-dyed in Bali, Indonesia. At the core of her brand are the following five values: authenticity, freedom, flow, joy and giving back. By wearing one of her pieces, it is her hope that you’ll embody these values in your own life.
R O W I E T H E L A B E L
Curate a classic wardrobe for work and weekend-wear with ROWIE‘s timeless, elegant and feminine designs. Created by Rowie Moore, the beloved brand creates trans-seasonal pieces that are reminiscent of a carefree, Australian lifestyle. Each piece is crafted with a dedication to detail. The emphasis is on sustainable natural fibres and small-scale production with fair treatment for their manufacturing team. Buy a piece now and it will still be a favourite in the years to come.
S P E L L
Cult fashion brand, SPELL is the result of the wild dream shared between sisters Elizabeth Abegg and Isabella Pennefather. Their designs are recognisable by their timeless, nostalgic beauty and celebration of the free-formed female spirit. Their dreamy campaigns transport us to far-away lands and inspire the inner dreamer. A combination of colour and print, or sometimes just beautiful texture, are features of their garments. Designed with fibres that are circular, regenerative and renewable, SPELL is a global pioneer at the intersection of environmental consciousness and ethical fashion production. The garments are perfect to wear to lunch, the farmer’s market, a music festival or a night out dancing. Behind the scenes of their beautiful label, they share a blog filled with sustainable DIY, crafternoons and girls’ nights. The world of SPELL is a beautiful world to be in.
I hope you enjoyed diving into the worlds of these inspiring local labels. If you have any favourite sustainable, ethical fashion brands you’d love to recommend, please leave a comment. I’d love to hear from you! x