Our favourite slow fashion and made-to-order labels from New Zealand
IMAGE VIA @ellislabel/INSTAGRAM
WORDS BY fashion journal
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 our favourite New Zealand slow fashion labels.
Oosteroom
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Designer Nicole Hadfield responds to a shrinking local manufacturing industry with her label, Oosterom. From her home studio in Auckland, she produces made-to-order pieces designed to be wardrobe staples for years to come. From her signature crinkled silk skivvys to her beautifully constructed wool coats, each piece is grounded in craftsmanship.
Āhuru
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Aotearoa-born label Āhuru (previously Amélie Knits) is the latest project from designer Natalie Robb, whose practice spans knitwear, weaving and homespun. Her debut collection Heirloom, is a series of labour-intensive pieces that sit between garment and object. Among them, gorgeous cropped vests, cardigans, balaclavas and leg warmers that definitely live up its name – ‘āhuru’ means to be warm, cosy and comfortable in te reo Māori.
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.
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.
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, Lulu 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.
For more sustainable New Zealand fashion, head here.
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