6 of our favourite labels making everything by hand
Image via Little Hangings
By hand.
There’s something special about buying a piece that’s handmade.
On top of its low environmental impact, a handcrafted item tells the story of its creator.
Here are 6 labels making things the old-fashioned way.
Little Hangings (pictured above)
Little Hangings is out to prove that minimalist jewellery can still make a statement. The fine silver, gold and rose gold designs use delicate and simple line work to create unique shapes. Every single piece is handmade in Melbourne to ensure the highest possible quality, while still staying affordable. To support women in abusive situations, the label has released a Jewellery for Justice collection, featuring seven designs named after survivors of abuse. With each purchase from the collection, 50 per cent of profits are donated to organisations committed to ending domestic violence.
The Sew Good Company
The Sew Good Company began as a way for mothers in Cambodia to share parenting stories while they made handcrafted toys. Now, it’s grown to an ethical clothing label, helping to support the lives of the women who create each garment. Seamstresses are paid generously and work in a safe, supportive environment with all profits going back into the community. As for the clothes, designs are all about comfortable silhouettes, vibrant prints and size diversity. Each collection includes sizes from 6 to 26, with careful consideration of how pieces will flatter different body types.
Aislinn Neave
Jewellery from Aislinn Neave isn’t just handmade. It’s handcrafted locally in Melbourne by jeweller, Aislinn, for eccentric souls and those who dance to the beat of their own drum. Aislinn was inspired to start the line by her grandfather, who began work as a diamond setter when he was 15 years old. Now, at 80, he still works with his granddaughter to set a majority of the label’s pieces. Each design is the product of experimenting with shapes and textures inspired by the cosmos. Bespoke pieces are also on offer, allowing clients to work closely with Aislinn to create jewellery that perfectly matches their vision and aesthetic.
ALIA Jewellery
Handcrafted in Europe but inspired by Sydney’s beaches, ALIA Jewellery’s 18-karat gold designs incorporate the best parts of two very different cultures. Each piece is made from premium materials, using traditional European goldsmithing techniques to produce sturdy yet delicate jewellery. The label’s debut collection, Geometry, features yellow or white gold pendants and white or Australian Argyle pink diamonds. As well as adding some bling, diamonds are said to grant good luck to whoever wears them. Your shopping spree will also help kids in need, as a portion of all ALIA sales are donated to the Australian children’s charity, Variety.
Hills & West
Hills & West knows that an outfit isn’t complete without the right handbag. With a focus on quality, form and functionality, the brand specialises in accessories that can be adapted to suit any lifestyle. Shoppers can be worn three ways, backpacks transform into totes, and features like extra zips allow you to extend your bag for more space. Each style is 100 per cent handmade in Australia, using premium leather and traditional techniques. The latest collection, Lunar, launches in December, featuring a brand new shape in mix-and-match colourways.
Ovazania
Shopping for jewellery is a chance to have some fun and showcase your personality. That’s why celebration, positivity and joy are all at the heart of Ovazania’s earring and necklace designs. The label’s pieces are handmade in Melbourne, using lightweight acrylic in bold, uplifting colours to nod to the vibrancy of different countries across Africa. Each collection combines old and new cultural influences and the latest, titled Nako, is no different. Melding modern sculpture and architecture with timeless South African motifs, the line features attention-grabbing geometric designs in pops of tangerine, green, lilac and bright yellow.
This article was originally published in Fashion Journal 185. You can read it here.
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