The Best Ethical Clothing Brands in Australia
Next time you require fresh threads, choose one of the best ethical and sustainable clothing brands in Australia.
In a time when "fast fashion" is the new norm, shopping ethically and sustainably has never been more important. But it's not always easy. That's why we've put together this edit of the best ethical clothing brands in Australia, from sleepwear to winter coats.
First and foremost, we like to adhere to the ethos of buying less and buying quality but when it comes time to replace your trusty old jeans or you need some fresh wardrobe staples, these are the places and fashion companies to pop to the top of your list.
From environmental initiatives to the employment of vulnerable people, these are the brands in the fashion industry doing right. Ready to shop the best ethical and sustainable clothing brands in Australia? Read on.
Kowtow
The only thing better than Kowtow's chic and minimalist aesthetic is its commitment to producing ethical fashion. They cut no corners by exclusively using `100% certified Fairtrade cotton and adhering to transparent and ethicical production and manufacturing practices. This involves creating a positive work environment that is inclusive, diverse and accessible and looking after the people working in their supply chain.
Bassike
Purveyors of top-notch wardrobe staples, Bassike have been working with organic cotton, Australian makers and responsible business practices right from the beginning. Channelling laidback luxe, their threads aren't just comfy but transparently produced, too. B Corp certified, Bassike has endured as one of the best ethical clothing brands in Australia since 2006 - a massive achievement!
Country Road
Country Road are doing some wonderful things by way of sustainable design lately. Their collections are getting better and better each year with structured workwear, quality knits and luxe day-to-night pieces forming the bulk of their womenswear offering. But they're also consistently pushing to improve traceability through the supply chain and prioritising responsible sourcing of materials. You'll also find them working with Australian farmers, manufacturers and independent designers regularly.
Friend of Audrey
Inspired by enduring style icon Audrey Hepburn, this Sydney-based brand champions the slow consumption movement. What does this mean? Designing clothes that are refined, long-lasting and the building blocks of a capsule wardrobe. And they look mighty good doing it! This is ethical clothing at its best.
Outland Denim
A business model based on giving instead of taking is what it's all about at Outland Denim. Their denim silhouettes deliver the ultimate vibe whilst you can rest assured your purchase contributes to worker empowerment and environmental innovation. The entire brand was founded as a place for victims of sexual exploitation to engage in safe employment and they continue to employ individuals with backgrounds of vulnerability and exploitation to this day.
Outland Denim is also the first Australian, and second denim brand globally, to become B Corporation™ certified.
Obus
Creators of cute and colourful pieces, Obus aim to bring joy with their bright designs. But that's not all that these good folk get up to. With the exclusion of knitwear and some accessories, Obus pieces are all made right here in Australia. Those items that are made overseas are held to strict ethical and environmental standards. Natural materials are championed where possible and high-quality, small runs that transcend seasonal fads.
Cue
Unbeknownst to many, Cue has been delivering the goods since 1968. Serving working girl chic for over five decades, they continue to craft looks ideal for day-to-night - which is great if you're looking to create a capsule wardrobe with high wearability.
On the sustainability front, Cue is working towards utilising more certified sustainable fabrics which includes their denim wear range.
Maggie Marilyn
Whilst technically based in New Zealand, Maggie Marilyn deserves an honourable mention. They're all about swish, cool-girl pieces that cover everything from sleepwear and knitwear to wedding guest dresses. The ethos? To produce wardrobe essentials designed to last (and be loved) for a lifetime.
They've secured a climate-positive status, have a commitment to a circular business model and are working towards having a decarbonized, regenerative supply chain. Their motto? Buy as you need, repair what you can and repurpose what you can't.
Updated your wardrobe with some of the best ethical clothing brands in Australia and looking for more sustainable and ethical buys? Check out our edit of the low-tox, clean beauty brands we love, or spruce up your space with one of these ethical buys for your home.
Our Sitchu editors work hard to deliver you the best products, events and venues that we hope you will love and each one is selected independently. Sitchu may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.
