The world of Australian clothing brands deserves some time in the spotlight, and here is why.
As a country churning out cult brands and runway-inspired clothing labels over the last five years, Australian clothing brands will be some of the most loved ones by celebrities in 2023.
Australian fashion is also known for its effortless elegance, a growing choice of sustainable clothing, and emerging designer brands.
This article rounds up the best Australian clothing brands in 2023, from beach and swimwear to modern streetwear styles, high-end haute couture, and rare capsules of timeless designs.
We’ve also included smaller but innovative Australian apparel labels known for bringing quality clothing to the table at a fraction of the prices charged by high-end Australian designers.
Loved by fashion editors, influencers, and A-list celebrities, these are the most exciting Australian designers you should know about.
1/10
Ginger & Smart
Best Australian Clothing Boutique
High-end ($99 – $1,200)
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Ginger & Smart has plenty of creations to choose from if you want to impress, from classic workwear pieces to special dresses for selected dinner dates.”
Founded by Alexandra and Genevieve Smart in 2002, Ginger & Smart combines bold colors and exquisite prints to create timeless designs.
Ginger & Smart is an ethically-sourced label that uses only quality fabrics in every garment it creates.
From classic workwear pieces to a unique dress for a dinner date, many creations grab attention and impress.
Ginger & Smart Lumiere Sundress
$599
Ginger & Smart Blush Jumpsuit
$649
Ginger & Smart Lantern Wrap Dress
$549
Ginger & Smart Green Aquarelle Top
$429
2/10
Double Rainbouu
Best Australian Beachwear Brand
Premium ($80 – $240)
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“A great Australian clothing brand for reimagined Hawaiian shirts and silhouettes emblazoned with vibrant prints designed in-house by Nolan and Jones.”
The Aussie label Double Rainbouu hit the market in 2016 when designers Mikey Nolan and Toby Jones went against the idyllic vision of resortwear to create sleep styles from bed to beach.
With pieces bound to have you standing out on your next vacation, Double Rainbouu has the looks you need at a beach near you this summer.
Double Rainbouu Plaid Sundown Shirt
$195
Double Rainbouu Green Mint Paradise Pant
$190
Double Rainbouu Pink Flowers White Uni Tee
$90
Double Rainbouu Burning Up Night Swim Shorts
$100
3/10
Anna Quan
Best Modern Australian Clothing Brand
Premium ($68 – $460)
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“On a global scale, Anna Huong’s reinterpretations of classic white shirting have caught the attention of stylists, bloggers, and Australian fashion lovers.”
Anna Quan is an Australian clothing brand focusing on refined tailoring to create wearable silhouettes and perfect fits.
Anna Hoang’s sleek reinterpretations of the crisp white shirt with distinct oversized details attract serious attention on social media.
Anna Quan Odile Top
$250
Anna Quan Tia Dress
$460
Anna Quan Abeni Dress
$325
Anna Quan Helena Dress
$425
4/10
Lee Mathews
Best Australian Designer Clothing Brand
High-end ($120 – $830)
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Infused with Australian art and culture, Mathew’s timeless creations are functional, stylish, and above all, affordable for all.”
Established in 2000, Lee Mathews is an Australian label and a great reflection of Australian architecture, art, and style.
Lee Mathews’s pieces are a rare combination of recycled materials with rare prints and mesmerizing silhouettes, blending nicely to create feminine designs fitting for any sustainable fashion show.
The brand’s signature designs are unmistakable, boasting intricate detailing techniques and unique craftsmanship for any occasion or time of the day.
Lee Mathews Silk Satin Slip
$460
Lee Mathews Celia Pant
$410
Lee Mathews Elsie Shirt Dress
$550
Lee Mathews Edie Anorak
$600
5/10
Dion Lee
Best Australian Streetwear Clothing Brand
High-end ($190 – $1,996)
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Long a staple in every Australian woman’s wardrobe, nowadays Dion Lee is a staple in the closets of Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner, and Selena Gomez.”
Launched in 2009, Dion Lee is deeply rooted in experimental design and architectural silhouettes, continuing to evolve through technical materials and bold constructions each season.
Innovative, sculptural, sensual, and always balanced, Dion Lee has forged a new path for Australian clothing design by maintaining a delicate balance between bold aesthetics and luxury couture.
Already a big name in the Australian fashion scene, Dion Lee creates modern designs and trendy streetwear from exclusive, sustainable materials.
Dion Lee Black Moulded Mesh Top
$550
Dion Lee High-waisted Cargo Pants
$490
Dion Lee Twist-back Ribbed Top
$450
Dion Lee Rib Collage Flared Pants
$590
6/10
Alice McCall
Best Australian Dress Designer Brand
High-end ($75 – $849)
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Feminine, delicate, and timeless, the brand’s bold patterns draw inspiration from the ’60s fashion, showcasing frequent neutral tones and floral finishes to remind us of the Flower Power days.”
Founded in 2004, Alice McCall is an Australian clothing brand specializing in partywear, stunning separates, and floral dresses that ooze femininity and a sprinkle of high fashion.
Alice McCall cut her teeth in the London fashion scene before migrating to Australia to launch her namesake brand.
McCall’s eye for detail and instinct for design has kept her pieces on the cutting edge of feminine style, finding their way to the likes of Priyanka Chopra to Kacey Musgraves.
Alice McCall Swan Feather Mini Dress
$849
Alice McCall She’s Electric Mini Dress
$449
Alice McCall Catalina Playsuit
$339
Alice McCall Deep Sea Jacket
$395
7/10
Barney Cools
Best Men’s Australian Clothing Brand
Premium ($40 – $136)
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“One of the most popular Australian streetwear brands of cool, sophisticated, and effortlessly stylish couture, Barney Cools celebrates stylistic design nostalgia via laidback creations for people across the country and beyond.”
Hailing from Sydney, Barney Cools continues to spread its carefree spirit of bold prints in organic cotton, affordable and suitable for the current street style.
At the heart of the operation is a steadfast commitment to freedom and rebellion, manifested by crisp color and a casual vibe.
Pair a Barney Cools tee with some Pac Suns quality pieces and head to the beach, Aussie style.
Barney Cools College Homie Slate Tee
$48
Barney Cools Holiday Tie Dye Shirt
$80
Barney Cools Holiday Floral Blur Shirt
$80
Barney Cools Pastel Corduroy Shirt
$80
8/10
Sass & Bide
Best Independent Australian-Made Clothing Brand
High-end ($80 – $990)
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Dissecting the latest trends with a magical touch, Sass & Bide’s pieces play with textures, shapes, and colors, aiming to push the limits of Australian clothing to the next level.”
Nowadays, an iconic Australian fashion label, Sass & Bide, was founded in 1999 by best friends Sarah-Jane Clarke and Heidi Middleton.
As one of Australia’s most influential designers, Sass & Bide explores ways of augmenting the style of bold and individualistic women.
Beyoncé, Sarah Jessica Parker, Madonna, and Rihanna are a few big names supporting Sass & Bide’s stunning pieces in flattering designs.
Sass & Bide Oasis Paradise Dress
$450
Sass & Bide Wild Play Mini Dress
$590
Sass & Bide Infinite Love Top
$690
Sass & Bide The Love Street Dress
$490
9/10
Maurie & Eve
Best Sustainable Australian Clothing Brand
Affordable (from $19)
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Maurie & Eve’s timeless and effortless feminine pieces will make it look like you’re walking on the hottest runway, even in an oversized sweater.”
Operating since 2004, Maurie & Eve is an Australian clothing brand specializing in knitwear, dresses, and playsuit in soft and calming colors.
Maurie & Eve womenswear lines showcase clean and contemporary aesthetics, suitable for outdoors – basking in the sun or chilling on the lounge patio during a warm night.
Maurie & Eve October Sky Shirt
$110
Maurie & Eve Acme Mini Dress
$117
Maurie & Eve Oversized Jumper
$117
Maurie & Eve Wanna Jumpsuit
$103
10/10
Lorna Jane
Cheap Australian Activewear Clothing Brand
Affordable (from $9.99)
EDITOR’S NOTE:
“Driven to become the best activewear brand on the planet, Lorna Jane’s athleisure pieces will transform how you think (and feel) about fitness and staying active.”
Created by the part-time aerobics instructor Lorna Jane Clarkson in 1980, the Lorna Jane brand is at the top of feminine athletic performance and style.
As one of the most affordable Australian fitness clothing brands, Lorna Jane offers a wide range of women’s athleisure and activewear in over 146 stores in Australia alone.
Lorna Jane Lifted Active Long Sleeve Top
$81
Lorna Jane Skinny Iconic Sports Bra
$70
Lorna Jane 80’s Revival Zip Jacket
$135
Lorna Jane Rest And Relax Rib Sweat
$90
Australian Fashion FAQs |
Which is the Most Popular Fashion Brand in Australia?These are the top 5 most popular Australian clothing brands in 2023:
Other emerging but well-known Australian clothing brands worth mentioning in this article are Aje, Bared Footwear, Country Road, Gorman, Jets Swimwear, Kitte, Manning Cartell, Nobody Denim, Tigerlily, Witchery, Zimmerman, Sheike, Sportsgirl, Scanlan & Theodore, Mimco, Bridget Yorston, Becky Cooper, Hansen & Gretel, Billabong, Camilla and Marc, HoMie, SABA, PE Nation, and Bunnings. |
What is the Most Popular Clothing Store in Australia?The most popular online clothing store in Australia in 2023 is ASOS.com, followed by theiconic.com.au, kmart.com.au, and cottonon.com. |
What Clothes are Popular in Australia?Most popular clothes in Australia are always weather-dependent. With hot weather in most parts of Australia, light summery dresses are trendy and paired with short-sleeve shirts, shorts, bathing suits, flip-flops, hats, and activewear. |
What is the Main Fashion Style in Australia?Australia is known for its warm weather, and fashion follows suit. Australian fashion trends tend to be relaxed and effortless, reflecting values such as freedom, adventure, and nature. Many designers take inspiration from the beautiful Australian landscapes and easy-going lifestyle. Because it’s warm in most parts of the country, summery clothes that are easy to wear are always popular. Expect to see a lot of short-sleeve shirts, shorts, bathing suits, flip-flops, hats, activewear, and materials such as linen and cotton. In the outback, boots are ubiquitous. |
When is Australian Fashion Week?Australian Fashion Week is held yearly in Sydney, usually in April or May. This year it’s running from May 31 to June 4 at Carriageworks in Eveleigh, Sydney. |
Are Clothes Cheap in Australia?Australia’s clothing industry features a full spectrum of price points, as with any industry. Because every part of the production chain costs a little more in Australia than in other parts of the world, clothing is a little more expensive, in general. |
Conclusion
The days when the name ‘Australia’ prompted comments about wildlife, crocodiles, snakes, kangaroos, barbeques, beer, and surf dogs are long gone.
Modern Australia is a hub for contemporary fashion, beauty, and style, with a clothing and apparel scene growing faster than anywhere else.
Leading Australian clothing brands set stylistic trends and win fashion awards against a slew of global competitors in the market of fashion brands and online clothing stores.
Not only is Australia home to some of the best fashion brands in the world, but the nr of emerging brands – yet to be discovered by the masses – is off the charts.
From internationally renowned designer labels like Zimmermann, Byron Bay, and Dion Lee to It-girl favorites like Sir The Label and Aje, our editorial team carefully curated all Australian clothing brands in this article.
All 10 Aussie clothing brands in this article were selected for their effortlessly cool aesthetic – inspired by the country’s laidback lifestyle – appreciated and worn by women worldwide.
The number of celebrities with limitless wardrobe options showing off in Australian clothing is a statement of the country’s growth in the fashion scene.
After Kendall Jenner in Bec and Bridge to Bella Hadid in Camilla and Marc and Blake Lively in Zimmermann, the time has come to enjoy the easy-breezy elegance from Down Under.
Weekly Newsletter
Keep up with the latest in fashion, beauty and style!
Now it’s your turn…
Which one of these Australian clothing brands is your favorite and why?
Are there any other Australian clothing brands you’ve tried, liked, and want to add to this list?
Comments below, please!
Natalie is an expert communications advisor for large media firms, specializing in implementing, managing, and delivering marketing strategies with award-winning results. Natalie uses her expertise and connections to provide The VOU's audience with a deep understanding of the Australian lifestyle, fashion, beauty, and popular brands.
I’ve been living in Australia for 20 years now and I can confirm that these are some of the most wanted clothing brands and fashion designers in Australia right now. I also recommend David Jones, packed with very young Australian fashion designers, – link here: https://www.davidjones.com/women/australian-designer
Just like Canadian clothing brands, Australian brands are somehow irrelevant on the world of fashion.