The 5 Best Slow Fashion Brands in Australia

The fashion winds are changing, with consumers turning away from fast fashion in favour of sustainable clothing options, or what has been dubbed ‘slow fashion.’

The growing movement has seen old brands evolve and new brands arise, actively considering their resources and processes—seeking ways to better treat people, animals, and our precious planet.

After oil, the fashion industry is the second biggest polluter globally—a fact that many will find quite shocking. In Australia, The University of Queensland reports, we “send 85% of the textiles we buy to landfill each year.” Needless to say, it seems our mindset has shifted towards a belief that clothing is disposable.

So, what’s the damage? Based on a sustainability report from The University of Queensland, “the clothing and textile industry is depleting non-renewable resources, emitting huge quantities of greenhouse gases and using massive quantities of energy, chemicals and water.” Then there are the millions of items made of synthetic fibres manufactured each year, some of which take up to 1,000 years to biodegrade.

There are also enormous social consequences, with sixty-million people working in the garment industry to fuel fast fashion. Fifteen-million of these workers are based in Asia, 80% of which are underpaid young women from rural areas. A 2018 U.S Department of Labour Report also “found evidence of forced and child labour in the fashion industry in Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, China, India” and other countries.

While helping the planet is an obvious drawcard, the chance to purchase clothing that will last longer than one season (or one wash in some cases) is highly appealing. Designer label lovers need not despair, as many ethical fashion labels don’t compromise on style or quality. Here is a round-up of 5 of our favourite Australian brands that have the sustainable seal of approval.

The Best Slow Fashion Brands In Australia

KITX

Founded by Kit Willow in 2015, KITX is a brand that “strives to be a pioneer in design-led, sustainable and ethical fashion”. The popular label believes in sustainable sourcing across every material used in their clothing production and packaging. KITX doesn’t skimp on the style front with its collection of dresses, skirts, tops, trousers, lingerie and save the bees tees.

Saroka

Image: @saroka_official

Saroka is an ethical, sustainable and inclusive womenswear label dedicated to empowering women. The Australian-made brand that stocks up to size 16 was founded in 2015 by Melinda Andaloro—a slow and sustainable fashion supporter. The label loves using premium fabrics to create long-term investment pieces with each garment “handmade to order in Melbourne, eliminating fabric and stock waste.”

Bassike

Bassike, a local and global success, was established in 2006 by Deborah Sams and Mary Lou Ryan. Bassike rose to fame with its initial collection of certified organic cotton jersey t-shirts and pants. 15 year later, the brand is now available in 8 locations around Australia and 80 retailers worldwide. Bassike's philosophy resonates with a promise of high-quality design and construction with a commitment to sustainable manufacturing.

Arnsdorf

Arnsdorf was established in Australia in 2006 by designer Jade Sarita Arnott, inspired by her background in sculpture, photography and art history. The brand is also inspired by sustainability with an Ethical Clothing Australia accreditation. All garments are designed, cut, sewn and finished at the brand's in-house Atelier in Collingwood, Melbourne.

Ginger & Smart

Founded in 2002 by Sydney-based sisters Alexandra and Genevieve Smart, Ginger & Smart's "sustainable purpose is to create beautifully considered timeless pieces, designed to be worn many times and with a low impact on the global environment.” The brand has boutiques around Australia and is a hot favourite with its chic collections of ready-to-wear clothing, shoes and accessories.

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