Genderless apparel and accessories brand Haulier named “the future of Australian fashion”

One to watch.

PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival has today announced Sydney label Haulier as the winner of the National Designer Award presented by David Jones. The award acts as a predictor of the future of Australian fashion, defining the future of many Australian designers by giving a handful of finalists opportunities for mentorship, networking and critical industry exposure.

CEO of PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival, Caroline Ralphsmith, noted a panel of industry judges selected Haulier for its “clear vision, considered design and sophisticated approach to brand and business [that] really stood out”. The brand specialises in functional accessories (the Utility Tote is Haulier’s crown jewel) and has expanded into genderless apparel, with a focus on quality craftsmanship and timeless design. Function and quality sit at the brand’s core.

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Haulier’s self-assured presence makes perfect sense in light of Founder and Creative Director Jeremy Hershan’s CV. He’s held seats at some of the world’s top luxury and legacy brands, including a stint as Head of Design at R.M. Williams and a position on The International Woolmark Prize Advisory Council. For Haulier, Jeremy will receive a prize pool valued at $130,000 to help develop the brand.

The other designers on this year’s shortlist were Alix Higgins, Ikuntji Artists, Jordan Gogos of Iordanes Spyridon Gogos, Timothy Aquino of Thdr and Natasha Gordon of Clea. 

Iordanes Spyridon Gogos took out the Award’s Honourable Mention for Sustainability, for designer Jordan’s dedication to reducing environmental impact through manufacturing processes. “What Jordan Gogos has consistently shown through his label Iordanes Spyridon Gogos is a willingness to think differently and embrace the core principles that can make fashion sustainable: investing in local manufacturing while working with waste and quality natural materials to produce truly beautiful, durable products,” noted sustainable fashion expert and member of the judging panel, Lucianne Tonti.  Jordan will receive a cash prize of $10,000 and mentorship from David Jones. 

Melbourne label Clea was voted number one by the public for this year’s People’s Choice Award.

Now in its 28th year, the National Designer Award and its associated prize pool has proven to be a true incubator of Australian talent, with past winners including Christopher Esber, Dion Lee, Romance Was Born, Alémais, P.E. Nation, Toni Maticevski and Strateas Carlucci.