The Australian labels we always go to for high-quality basics
IMAGE VIA @DEIJISTUDIOS/INSTAGRAM
WORDS BY FASHION JOURNAL
Invest in the classics.
It’s officially the era of less is more in fashion (or at least for us it is), which means it’s time to go back to basics. Building a thoughtful, considered, seasonless wardrobe (a capsule wardrobe, if you will) is all about investing in high-quality pieces. Think of the gaps in your collection. Are you missing a perfectly-tailored wool suit, or maybe a pair of trousers that feel like they were made for you?
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Lucky for us in Australia, there are a number of brands in our backyard producing beautiful pieces made to stand the test of time. Scroll on for some of our favourite local labels making high-quality wardrobe basics.
Denimsmith
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Nothing quite beats the feeling of finding a perfect pair of jeans– especially when they have been built to last. With over three decades of denim expertise, Denimsmith are the experts for all your wardrobe staples made from ethically-sourced denim. With a retail store in Fitzroy and their factory in Brunswick East, they also offer hemming and adjustments to make sure you get the right fit.
By Neil Vernon
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The genius of this Sydney-based label is best summarised by three words: Adjustable Pant Hems. We also love them for other elevated and functional basics, like the perfect singlets and long-sleeves for layering, and mini skirts we want to wear 24/7.
E Nolan
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Melbourne label E Nolan has carved a niche in made-to-measure suiting specifically for women and LGBTQIA+ people. Founder Emily Nolan has a keen eye for textiles, tailoring and high-quality details, making pieces “to migrate between dress codes and the schedules of modern life”.
Sir the Label
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Sir the Label is one of our favourites for stocking up on quality wardrobe essentials like seamless underwear and slips, as well as classic flattering swimwear and beach basics. We particularly like the idea of a sheer maxi halter dress to throw on over an aforementioned bikini or slip for an easy holiday capsule wardrobe.
Best Jumpers
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Genderless Australian label Best Jumpers offers thoughtful pieces that merge traditional tailoring, high-quality fabrications and sportswear-inspired detailing. The brand’s latest Spring Summer 23:24 collection offers high-quality camp shirts, polos, seersucker trousers, shorts, caps and more.
Nico
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Made with organic and recycled cotton or Lenzing Moda, Nico’s ultra-soft undies and bras will stand the test of time. This Australian label makes other thoughtful pieces too, including pants, button-up shirts and cotton tees.
Beare Park
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Australian-made ready-to-wear label Beare Park crafts considered, elegant womenswear pieces, with a focus on seasonless design and high-quality fabrications. The brand’s silk pieces (like this off-the-shoulder top) and tailored outerwear are favourites.
Caves Collect
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Melbourne label Caves Collect focuses on elegant, simple cuts and limited-run pieces in neutral tones. The brand, founded by duo Sarah Russell and Johanna Howe, makes high-quality womenswear and speciality leather goods. Its soft knits and breezy button-ups are standouts.
Friends with Frank
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Friends with Frank definitely sells your dream coat. Made with 100 per cent Australian wool, its garments are timeless winter wardrobe staples. And if you’re looking for transseasonal layering pieces, Friends with Frank has got the tees, tanks and long sleeves for you.
Coreprêt
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Founded in 2017, Coreprêt is a womenswear label that blends traditional tailoring techniques with unique fabrications and romantic details. The label offers a curated selection of ‘Weekly Essentials’ – a core range of well-done basics, made responsibly and designed to last.
Silk Laundry
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If a quiet luxury capsule wardrobe is what you’re after, Australian label Silk Laundry should be top of your list. Think classic, everyday shirts and flattering bias-cut slips made from luxurious sand-washed silk. Simple enough to wear to work, yet sophisticated enough to wear to your next wedding or fancy soirée.
Esse Studios
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Born out of frustration with the sheer excess and waste evident in the fashion industry, Esse is a contemporary ready-to-wear lifestyle brand for women who take a considered approach to their style. Esse pieces are a sleek balance of masculine and feminine elements, blending timeless tailoring with flattering cuts.
R.M. Williams
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A staple Australian brand for handcrafted leather footwear since 1932, R.M. Williams is still our trusted destination for classic, high-quality pieces like belts, bags and everyday boots that only get better with age. The brand is also big on educating its customers about proper leather care, offering a full range of repair services.
Deiji Studios
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Based out of Bryon Bay, Deiji Studios are quickly filling the gaps in our wardrobes as we head into warmer weather. From crisp cotton sun dresses to breezy linen pants, they’ve got transeasonal dressing covered.
Vege Threads
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Vege Threads likes to keep things simple. Focused on creating practical, long-lasting basics, Vege Threads manufactures 100 per cent of its pieces in Australia using organic, eco-friendly materials and dyes. Vege Threads urges you to embrace slow fashion, placing value on sustainability, good design and style in your wardrobe.
This article was originally published on November 17, 2023.
For more on building a capsule wardrobe, head here.
