A growing list of made-to-order New Zealand fashion labels
IMAGE VIA @LOCLAIRE_OFFICIAL/INSTAGRAM
WORDS BY IZZY WIGHT
Just for you.
Is made-to-order production the answer to fashion’s waste problems? While there’s no clear-cut answer, the concept of ‘bespoke’ design – previously reserved for French ateliers and wedding attire – has helped to slow down the accelerating trend cycle, encouraging shoppers to think before they add to cart.
Keep up to date with ethical designers over at our Fashion section.
Emerging local designers are at the forefront of this conscious design movement, preserving slow fashion principles through purposeful pre-orders and seasonless product drops. New Zealand labels are no exception, offering everything from hand-knitted vests to high-quality occasionwear in demand-based quantities. Below, find a growing list of made-to-order New Zealand fashion labels.
Molly Perkinsons
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Lulu Jackson started her sustainable womenswear label, Molly Perkinsons, after being taught sewing and patternmaking by her fashion designer grandmother. Based in Mount Maunganui, Molly Perkinsons creates pieces from vintage and deadstock fabrics, focusing on quality design and natural fabrics like silk, wool and cotton. Each garment is cut and handmade individually by Lulu, with custom orders available on request.
Amélie Knits
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Aotearoa-born label Amélie Knits handcrafts vibrant, playful pieces, like cropped jumpers, balaclavas, cardigans and boleros. Made from a mix of 100 per cent New Zealand-grown and spun mohair, Amélie knitwear is as soft as it is colourful.
J.Bush
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Based out of Wellington, designer James Bush has a strong understanding of the sculptural nature of tailoring. While J.Bush offers some pieces ready-made, the label’s more intricate pieces like the Woven Jacket and Plaid Blazer are made to order.
Baobei Label
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Wellington-based label Baobei is all about community, collaboration and authenticity. The brand stocks a playful selection of clothes and accessories, like pendant necklaces made from deadstock beads, soft cotton baby tees and freshwater pearl earrings.
Rachel Mills
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Made to order in its Mount Eden-based workroom, Rachel Mills crafts timeless basics and high-quality lingerie, loungewear and swimwear. With a focus on sustainability, the brand houses a small selection of items ready for next-day dispatch, while all other pieces are made to order.
Loclaire
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From elevated everyday basics to intricate going out wear and festival pieces, Loclaire really does it all. And their zero waste model works wonders for the planet. Pre-orders are open for a few days every month and limited styles are dropped monthly, making your garments especially unique.
Emma Jing
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Emma Jing-Cornall is one of the talented designers operating out of the collaborative Auckland showroom and studio, The Keep. Juxtaposing silky, cloud-like silhouettes with sexy, lingerie-esque separates, Emma’s designs are a celebration of femininity and form. She creates everything by hand, using any leftover fabrics to craft the brand’s loved XL scrunchies.
Alice Duncan-Gardiner
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Specialising in all things knitted and wonderful, Alice Duncan-Gardiner is an illustrator and designer operating out of Auckland. Alice hand-knits vests and tops using high-quality local wool, using leftovers to craft the same designs for little ones. Inspired by the beauty of New Zealand’s natural landscape, Alice’s designs are comprised of shades like moss green, sunset orange and mushroom.
Olivia Cashmore
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With a background in bespoke fashion, Olivia Cashmore’s debut collection is both impeccably crafted and thoughtfully designed. Operating out of her Auckland studio, Olivia’s eponymous label is all about genderless, ageless pieces, made to stand the test of time. Think elevated loungewear, elegant draping and high-quality construction.
Ellis
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Feminine, purposeful and elegant are the ideal adjectives to describe Auckland womenswear label, Ellis. Offering flattering cuts and simple, well-executed designs, the Ellis team crafts each piece with intention. Garments are released individually instead of in seasons, allowing the label to closely track production and minimise waste.
Jess Grindell
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Fuelled by powerful feminine energy, Jess Grindell’s eponymous label is all about making wearers feel seen and heard. Drawing inspiration from quintessential men’s tailoring, historical fashion and feminist icons, Jess’ garments are predominately made from deadstock fabrics like Japanese cotton lawn and Italian silk.
Gloria
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Gloria is the most recent project from iconic Auckland artist and designer, Kristine Mary Crabb. Offering made-to-order clothing, perfume and custom pieces, Gloria has a focus on artisanal design techniques and versatile design. Choose from a curated collection of silk capes, lamé midi skirts, polished outerwear and refined denim pieces.
For more sustainable New Zealand fashion, head here.
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