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Designer Spotlight: Quirky Australian label Gorman takes sustainability head-on

For this special Australian Edition of our Designer Spotlight series, we’ve rounded up eight labels from Down Under that have landed on our radar. Here’s a label that’s taking steps to be greener:

Founded in 1999, Melbourne-born label Gorman has become renowned for its offbeat prints, strong colour palettes and knitwear. The easy-to-wear fashion pieces have mostly unstructured and uncomplicated silhouettes, but the signature bold prints and colours are sure to turn heads. Unconfined by the conventional expectation that women have to dress sexy, the brand is a celebration of daring to be true to yourself. The quirky womenswear label has built up a loyal following of fans, not just for their clothes but also for the brand’s efforts in sustainability. 

Founder Lisa Gorman has been dubbed one of Australia’s pioneers in sustainable fashion, and is one to drive social change through her brand as well, as we recall her collaboration with indigenous artists and models for a collection in 2019. The brand’s focus on sustainable fashion rings true through the Gorman Green line, which is made from 100% organic cotton. Its launch in 2007 made Gorman one of the first fashion designers in Australia to launch an organic collection. 25% of its clothing has come from certified organic textiles like tencel and recycled polyester, and the brand has plans to double to 50% in the coming year. 

As of 2016, Gorman has taken steps to make their production chain more transparent by listing all its suppliers from its final stage of production. They have committed to paying living wages throughout their supply chain, and have also made their stores more eco-friendly, reducing packaging and kitting them out with vintage furniture and low toxic paints. 


We picked some of our favourites from the brand:

From the Infinite Wardrobe: Baby It’s Cold Outside Pantsuit

Utilitarian chic gets a fresh new look in this one-piece wonder. The pastel print with pops of bright orange have got us in a holiday mood already — a fitting choice for your next getaway.

 

From the Infinite Wardrobe: Waterhole Dress

From the Infinite Wardrobe: Jilji and Bila Shirt Dress

Unsure how to style such loud dresses? Pair them with a pair of white sneakers for an effortlessly fun weekend look!

 

From the Infinite Wardrobe: Pollinate Shirt

 

From the Infinite Wardrobe: Pollinate Jean

Rent these matching separates and you’ll have plenty of ways to style them. Pair them with solid colour basics for a more toned down look, or if you’re feeling more adventurous, wear them together!

We’ve fallen in love with the vibrant prints and functional designs, but the brand’s commitment to being kinder to Mother Earth is what seals the deal. It’s definitely refreshing to see a fashion label walking the talk when it comes to being more sustainable and ethical, and we can’t wait to see what else Gorman has in store. In the meantime, check out more styles from the brand here.

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