Sydney streetwear label Examples was born out of a desire to create the perfect T-shirt
WORDS BY YASMIN GOWER
“It’s thrilling to see us shaping our own identity and creating new trends, brands and cultural influences that are unique to this region.”
After a year-long quest, two overseas adventures and countless sampling sessions in pursuit of the “perfect” tee, two friends came together in 2019 to create Examples. Based in Sydney, the label is trying to redefine wardrobe staples, one perfectly fitting T-shirt at a time.
For more fashion news, shoots, articles and features, head to our Fashion section.
Born out of close collaborations with graphic designers, artists, photographers, stylists and other creatives, Examples has an ever-expanding range of designs – think slouchy hoodies, well-cut tees, cross-body bags and wide-leg pants. Below, the label’s Co-founder Tesh speaks on the label’s journey so far.
Tell us about you. What’s your fashion background?
View this post on Instagram
Hi! I’m Tesh, I’m 26 and originally from Adelaide but now residing in Sydney. I haven’t had any formal fashion training (I actually have a background in finance and accounting), but I have always been interested in fashion, music and pop culture.
I’ve always loved shopping and building my personal wardrobe, so keeping in line with trends and being creative with my style has allowed me to turn my hobby into a business. Working on Examples over the years, I’ve been able to grow my connections with local suppliers, pattern makers, graphic designers and manufacturers who have been kind enough to help me understand the ins and outs of the industry.
How did the label get started? Talk us through the process and the challenges.
Starting the label was definitely a mission! It all began when my friend and I had an idea to start retailing clothes while also offering manufacturing services to local brands. We decided to take a leap of faith and flew to India and Sri Lanka to start developing relationships with potential manufacturers.
View this post on Instagram
The biggest challenge was trying to find the right partners who aligned with our vision and quality standards while also being flexible on MOQ (minimum order quantity) requirements. Despite the hurdles, the journey was rewarding, teaching us valuable lessons in entrepreneurship and the fashion industry.
What were you trying to achieve from the project at the time? How has this evolved and what are you trying to communicate through the brand now?
Our main goal was and still is to create high-quality pieces at a more affordable price point. In 2024, we are venturing past the usual production of T-shirts and hoodies and are working on more meticulous garments with some incredible materials.
How would you describe your label to someone who’s never seen it before?
View this post on Instagram
Examples is a Sydney-born label that employs locally sourced talent to design/produce wardrobe staples.
What are you most proud of in your work on your label?
I think my biggest accomplishment has been getting Examples stocked across multiple stores in Australia. It has been incredibly rewarding to see the brand grow and reach new audiences.
I’m also proud of the relationships we’ve built with talented local artists, whether that be graphic designers, photographers or stylists. Collaborating with them has not only enriched our designs but also allowed us to support and showcase the amazing creative talent in our community.
What do you wish you knew when you started?
View this post on Instagram
Do not cut corners! It’s tempting to try to save money wherever possible, but I’ve learned that investing in the right areas is crucial for long-term success. Whether it’s in product quality, marketing or customer experience, using funds wisely can make a significant difference in the growth and sustainability of the brand.
Who do you think is most exciting in Australian fashion right now?
View this post on Instagram
I think the most exciting thing about the Australian market is how young but rapidly growing it is. It’s thrilling to see us shaping our own identity and creating new trends, brands and cultural influences that are unique to this region.
What about the Australian fashion industry needs to change?
Both producers and consumers have played it quite safe over the last few years… I think it’s time we started taking more risks in mainstream fashion. I would love to see pieces that are extremely unique to Australian subcultures, or more people stepping outside the box to create something different to what you see on TikTok or Instagram.
Dream Australian collaborators?
View this post on Instagram
I’d love to lock in a collaboration with Melbourne’s own Perks and Mini (P.A.M.)! I really admire how they’ve built their brand over the years and it’s inspiring to see what scale an Australian brand can operate at.
Who is in your wardrobe right now?
Currently, my most worn designers and brands are Issey Miyake, Bianca Saunders, Wales Bonner, Acne Studios and Kiko Kostadinav.
How can we buy one of your pieces?
View this post on Instagram
Head over to examplesexamples.com or visit one of our retailers. We’re currently working on our most exciting collection yet and aiming for a winter release. Stay in tune with our Instagram @examples.au for updates!
Browse Examples’ range here.
Liked this? You’ll love these...
