While The Iconic is known for its huge range of designers and brands, what you may not know it for is ethical or sustainable fashion. While it’s far from perfect, the online platform curates what it calls its Considered edit. The collection includes Australian favourites such as Nobody Denim, Bec + Bridge and Outland Denim as well as international brands. While this is a great initiative and a step in the right direction, there are a few misleading things to be wary of if you’re a values-driven shopper.
The collection takes into account five filters: animal friendly, community engagement, eco-production, fair production and sustainable materials. However, if you tick all the boxes, the results will include anything that ticks at least one box – not all of them. For example, I ticked all the boxes and filtered for dresses and one of the hits was a Gorman dress. The dress was made from organic cotton and therefore considered part of the ‘sustainable materials’ category, but this is not a reflection of the whole brand and its environmental impact. We’d recommend unticking all the boxes and checking each of them one at a time to really know if the item you’re after checks out.
Denim
Nobody Denim
This Melbourne designed and made denim range is putting sustainability front and centre. Accredited by Ethical Clothing Australia, the brand publishes its carbon emissions, water usage, raw materials and waste on its website, and is transparent about audits and accreditations. The collection includes a diverse range of shades and styles and is designed to last. Shop here.
Outland Denim
Inspired by the film Taken, founder James Bartle built this not-for-profit, B-Corp from the ground up to help put an end to human trafficking. Made famous by Meghan Markle, this Aussie denim brand is all made in Cambodia by women who have been protected from exploitation through training and employment. Outland Denim’s designs are also super cool and comfy. Shop here.
Activewear
dk active
Ethically made in Brisbane, this brand uses organic and recycled fabrics and even includes a maternity range! dk active design for both men and women, and also have an ‘embrace’ collection for all the beautiful curvy women out there. The brand’s range includes everything you need to stay active from leggings and tees to crop tops and trackies.
Nimble Activewear
Here’s your conscious alternative to the the likes of Lululemon and Lorna Jane. If you’re an athleisure queen then look no further. This stylish brand is owned and run by a team of women and uses recycled plastic bottles to generate sustainable fabrics. I guess you can also wear Nimble Activewear’s range to work out as well if you want to, but no pressure! Shop here.
Team Timbuktu
From activewear to raincoats, Team Timbuktu has everything you need to look good and feel good for your adventures and workouts. You can trace the brand’s suppliers in Taiwan, China and India on its website and find out about the its regenerated and organic fibres. Team Timbuktu’s range is designed for minimal environmental impact, and maximum environmental exploring. Shop here.
Underwear
Lé Buns
While its products are made offshore in Cambodia and China, Lé Buns’ products are ethically produced with upmost respect for the environment. The brand’s minimal styles are designed to suit different shapes and sizes, and its swimwear range is equally flattering. Lé Buns also has a super soft loungewear range which can only be described as dreamy: the wide-leg linen pants and oversized bamboo tees are designed for ultimate comfort. Shop here.
Designer
Arnsdorf
This super transparent, ethically and locally produced brand is leading the way in ethical fashion in Australia. Arsndorf has been accredited by Ethical Clothing Australia and each product is listed on the brand’s website with a breakdown of production costs. The brand often collaborates with local artists for unique designs, creating signature asymmetrical silhouettes and classically tailored suits. Shop here.
Autark
South Australian label Autark use natural fibres and recycled deadstock to make its range of beautiful womenswear. With natural, earthy colours and flowing silhouettes, this label is a standout for Australian design. Autark also donates 5% of its online profits to the Aboriginal Literacy Foundation and manufactures locally to support Adelaide’s garment making industry. Shop here.
Bec + Bridge
If you’ve got a special event coming up (post-lockdown) then Bec + Bridge is your go-to Australian label for occasion pieces. The piece’s are not cheap, but they’re made in Australia and you can rest easy knowing the manufacturers are being paid by Australian standards. Shop here.
Manning Cartell
Made in Sydney and accredited by Ethical Clothing Australia since 2012, Manning Cartell celebrates femininity, strength and beauty with sharp silhouettes. The three sisters behind the label source luxurious fabrics from ethical producers to create the majority of collections on Australian soil. The range includes work-appropriate garments and the more formal pieces and party dresses. Shop here.
