Denim and sustainability aren’t usually words you find in the same sentence. The industry is known for its laborious methods, unsafe handling of chemicals, dyes and processes like sandblasting, and unethical production as far back in the supply chain as cotton farming. But Australian brands are looking to change that. In fact, these brands are truly turning the model on its head, opting for ethical production throughout the supply chain, water-saving processes and of course safe manufacturing processes.
Looking for Australian made denim and jeans? Check out this list.
1. Nobody Denim
Since 1999, Nobody Denim has been making quality, ethical denim. In 2023 the brand joined the Outland Denim group, cementing its place as an ethical and environmentally friendly producer of all things denim and jeans.Nobody Denim aspires to be Australia’s leading global denim brand, celebrating individuality and inspiring confidence. The brand says it combined elegance with bold femininity, offering timeless pieces that adapt to your unique style and stand the test of time.
2. Outland Denim (also in header)
If every purchase has an impact, this purchase packs a punch. Outland Denim founder James Bartle started a denim brand with manufacturing in Cambodia in an effort to create opportunities for women who have been impacted or were at risk of being involved in sex trafficking. Outland Denim produces its garments in Cambodia where workers are paid a living wage – almost unheard of in the fashion industry – and taught skills not only to do their job but to thrive in society. Bartle says they plan to pay living wages throughout their entire supply chain and are committed to reduce energy, water and waste throughout production.
3. Dejour Jeans
Dejour Jeans have been making and tailoring quality denim in Melbourne since 1989. Known for having some of the best jeans in the city, the boutique denim maker and retailer is focused on quality over seasonal styles. While some of its production has been offshored since they started, they maintain a level of local production and their unique edge – providing alterations to their jeans in-store at no further cost. These jeans are affordable and high quality from the middle of Melbourne. Drop into 542 Sydney Road, Brunswick to see for yourself.
4. Neuw Denim
Sydney-based brand Neuw is producing its denim with the environment in mind. The brand has released a line of denim that boasts zero water wastage, zero chemical distressing and zero washing waste as it moves towards a circular fashion model. Neuw opts for Australian-grown cotton in its denim, which is great because Australian cotton is some of the most water-use efficient cotton in the world and has yields three times the world average. Neuw Denim works with a small selection of factories is actively mapping its supply chain to gain further visibility of its production. Shop for all your men’s and women’s denim essentials.
5. Embody Women
Embody Women’s approach to denim is simple: “jeans that fit your curves without pulling, pinching, or gaping”. The brand’s entire range is ethically made in Australia – with a focus on inclusivity in shape and size. To reduce Embody Women’s environmental impact and avoid unethical processes, each garment is washed in an industrial family-run laundry and dye house in Sydney that complies with Australian rules and regulations when disposing of chemicals. The best part? The Embody jeans are available in an inclusive size range from 8-26.
6. Bassike
Staples and basics brand Bassike also produces some pretty sweet and sustainable denim products. On its website the brand says that sustainability for them means treating people and the planet with respect, lightening their environmental impact and constantly evaluating how they do that. Longevity is also a core consideration for Bassike, as it should be for all brands which is something that influences everything from the design stage in their business. They aim to produce all their collections with intention, integrity and longevity in mind. As a bonus, over 90% of Bassike’s products are ethically made in Australia which ensures a high level of supply chain transparency while supporting and helping to preserve the fashion industry in this country.
7. The Ark Clothing Co
For more than 25 years, The Ark Clothing Co. has been designed and made in Melbourne by a community of like-minded people who believe design should always be imbued with integrity. Proudly Australian owned with an incredibly passionate and talented team of over 70 staff, The Ark has 8 stores and makes small runs of its beautiful basics designs locally and ethically in Australia. The brand’s denim range includes jeans and jackets in classic colourways and cuts.
8. Nudie Jeans
It’s rare that we look further afield than New Zealand for sustainable fashion. But Swedish brand Nudie Jeans has more than two decades of ethical business practices to justify its place on this page. Known for its raw and selvedge denim in classic cuts, the cult-status Scandi label is GOTS-certified and commendably transparent about its supply chain. Its annual sustainability report covers everything from greenhouse emissions to living wages and social impact. Nudie offered free clothing repairs before it was cool, and worn-out jeans can be traded in to its denim recycling program for a discount on the next pair.
