The best Australian fashion brands to find all your outfit staples

Even if it is taking some time, the fashion industry is finally starting to prioritise sustainability. But, while it’s easier than ever to find sustainable options, it can still be hard to find all the pieces you need to make up an outfit.So we’ve done some of the research for you and have found some great conscious brands in Australia, so you’ll know where to go the next time you need to buy new clothes, whether you’re looking for anything from socks to swimwear. 

Basics

From a plain white tee to your favourite pair of jeans, versatile basics are an important part of any wardrobe. And a good place to start looking is Outland Denim, where you’ll find great quality jeans, and tops to go with them. Their products are made from organic cotton and provide ethical employment for victims of sexual exploitation.

Alternatively, get your tops custom made in the colour and style of your choosing with Citizen Wolf. Each piece is ethically made to order using a variety of sustainable, zero-waste fabrics.

Outland Denim’s Abigail - Aged Black Jeans

Activewear

No wardrobe is complete without some good quality activewear, whether you work out often or just want some comfortable clothes to relax in. And Dharma Bums sell products that are perfect for both. They have a wide range of designs in sizes XXS to XXL, use various sustainable materials and ensure ethical working conditions throughout their supply chain.

For designs crafted specifically for the outdoors, Zorali is your place to go. Their products are made of hemp, organic cotton and recycled fabrics, and are designed for comfort and durability in all your outdoor adventures.

Businesswear

Working from home may be more common than ever but businesswear still plays an important role in professional culture. Sustainable options can be hard to find, but there are some relatively affordable brands that are definitely worth checking out. ELK sells plenty of stylish, office-appropriate designs made from various sustainable materials. They’re also powered by 100% renewable electricity and have a range of vintage, repaired pieces.

If you have a bit more money to spend, Arnsdorf is also a great option. Their fabrics are made from organic, natural fibres or recycled alternatives and all their designs are made in-house in Melbourne. For added assurance, they’re also certified by Ethical Clothing Australia and B Corp.

Arnsdorf’s Carolyn Shirt

Jewellery

Good quality jewellery can last a lifetime, but this doesn’t mean we shouldn’t still try to find sustainable options. To stand out without compromising your ethics, check out the unique designs at Oddish. Manufactured in Australia, the metal used in all their jewellery is sourced from an Australian supplier with Responsible Jewellery Council accreditation. They also use recycled metals and manufacturing equipment that uses less energy than standard processes. Or, for luxurious, bespoke pieces, head to Natalie Marie Jewellery where they locally manufacture each piece to order and use a combination of recycled and new materials.

Oddish’s Arc Earrings

Swimwear

Swimwear has been a frontrunner of sustainability in fashion for some time, so there are many brands to choose from. Two of our favourites, though, are Elle Evans and Charlee Swim.

With designs for all body types, Elle Evans makes all their products with repurposed ocean and landfill waste. They’re locally manufactured, made to order and are posted in compostable packaging by a carbon neutral courier.

Alternatively, make heads turn with a bikini from Charlee Swim. Their products are made from pre and post-consumer waste in women-owned factories in Indonesia. Sustainability is at the core of their brand, and they’ve considered everything down to the tape used to seal their parcels.

Charlee Swim

Shoes and socks

Sustainable shoes are still difficult to find but there are some brands making strides in both formal and informal footwear. Check out Etiko for some casual designs made from organic cotton and natural rubber. If you’re looking for something to wear in the office or on a night out, Nelson Made makes heels and sandals from recycled leather and deadstock fabrics.

As for socks, Conscious Step sells some seriously cute designs made from organic, fairtrade cotton. Whether you view socks as a basic necessity or key fashion item, Conscious Step offer both simple and funky designs. And to top it off, each style helps support a different cause, from restoring oceans to preventing breast cancer.

Conscious Step’s socks that build homes

Underwear

We all know what it’s like to go through the day with a bra that doesn't quite fit, which is why comfortable, good quality underwear is so important. At Nat’v, it’s our goal to provide underwear that’s that and more. We use 80% TENCEL Modal yarn in all of our pieces, and prioritise ethics and sustainability throughout our supply chain.

Accessories

From headwear to handbags, no outfit is complete without the accessories to go with it. Find some classy handbags and purses made from cactus, pineapple and silicone at A_C. They’re ethically made and can even be rented for the ultimate sustainable option.

If backpacks are more your thing, Beekeeper Parade have a range of sturdy packs perfect for a hike or day at uni. These creatively designed bags are made by upcycling fabric offcuts that would otherwise go to landfill.

As for headwear, Will & Bear sell a wide range of beanies, caps and hats for some stylish sun protection. They’re made from hemp, organic cotton, straw and leftover wool that the fashion industry doesn’t use.

As awareness of sustainability increases, conscious brands are becoming more and more popular. It’s even become possible to wear an outfit of entirely sustainably-made products. So, next time you need to buy new, check out one of these brands!