I have a bonafide obsession with Australian fashion brands. Having an August birthday, I've always preferred summer dresses to layers, and Aussie labels offer some of the best on the market. But make no mistake, they're about much more than great capsule holiday wardrobe.
Labels such as Faithfull, Matteau and Bondi Born have branched out into great occasionwear, tailoring and outerwear for the colder months, making them perfect all-rounders. So I thought I'd share my go-to Australian fashion brands so you can fall in love with them too.
Matteau
Matteau's ethos is 'less is more'. It was founded by sisters Ilona Hamer and Peta Heinsen in 2015, when they found it impossible to find a simple but flattering black bikini. Now, as well as swimwear, you can shop timeless separates and dresses in muted shades, as well as more statement colours and prints.
The label of focused on being ethical, with a goal of long term sustainability and responsible business practices. They recently completed their first Carbon Neutral project, which will offset carbon emissions in a registered program with Carbon Active each year.
Bondi Born
BONDI BORN is inspired by contemporary Australian style. Founder Dale McCarthy and Creative Director Natalia Grzybowski create elevated swimwear and summer apparel underpinned by a commitment to uncompromising quality, ethics and sustainable practices.
The label sources only the finest quality, eco-certified fabrics from the world’s leading mills and makes every garment using premium local craftsmanship in Sydney. Its swimwear is recognised worldwide for its pared-back, elegant silhouettes, expertly cut from our unique, technically advanced swim fabrics that enhance and flatter the female form.
Aje
Founded in 2008 by best friends Adrian Norris and Edwina Forest, Aje is one of the contemporary Australian fashion brands offering a curated mix of effortless essentials and stand out, occasion pieces, each crafted with luxurious sensibilities. The design duo are grounded in their mutual love of the arts - Adrian trained at the acclaimed Liceo Artistico Venezia Venetian and Edwina held a tenure at leading fashion title, RUUSH - creating collections that are recognised for signature statement pieces, the use of volume, raw edges, hand cast hardware and unique detailing.
Lee Mathews
Lee Mathews established her namesake womenswear label in 2000 with the belief that she should simply make good things. She delivers seasonal mainline, workwear and accessories collections with a focus on quality, craftsmanship and design integrity.
Faithfull the Brand
Founded in Indonesia in 2012, Faithfull the Brand - one of the most well-known Australian fashion brands - has care, quality and authenticity weaved into its fabric. From day one, co-directors, Sarah-Jane Abrahams and Helle Them-Enger have collaborated with Bali’s best manufacturers to create their hand-made garments, and have continued to live and work closely with their local community ever since.
Realisation Par
A lot of people think this is a US brand, but it was actually founded in Melbourne by Alexandra Spencer and Teale Talbot. It's now an international success story with the likes of Margot Robbie, Em Rata and Kaia Gerber sporting the brand's signature floral slip and wrap dresses.
Zimmermann
Founded in 1991 by sisters Nicky and Simone Zimmermann, the brand offers floaty floral designs worn by an army of celebrities and royalty, such as Beyonce, Kendall Jenner and the Princess of Wales. Their chic swimwear is second to none.
Beare Park
Beare Park specialises in sophisticated and simple outfits, focusing on tailoring, that transcend trends. It was launched at the Sydney Opera House during Australian Fashion Week 2021, and every garment is designed in Sydney by Co-Founder and Creative Director Gabriella Pereira, and crafted in limited runs by close suppliers to avoid waste.
Rebecca Valance
Having launched the business in London 2012, Rebecca decided to move back home to Sydney to launch locally with collections that very much focus on structured tailoring, precision cut separates, beautiful day to evening dresses and luxurious fabrications.
