We’re pretty proud of our Brisbane fashion heritage (as long as it’s cut-off denim shorts with everything, regardless of climate). And it turns out there are a lot of fashion brands based right here—from quirky boutique designers to household names (hello, Sass & Bide). And while Melbourne keeps trying to make black-on-black interesting, we’re not afraid to actually splash some colour—especially when it comes to summer frocks.
So in the interests of giving your wardrobe a little local flavour this summer dress season, here are 9 clothing brands which started right here in Brisbane.
Ukiyo
High quality natural fabrics made in family-owned mills, chemical-free dyes and collections that are handmade here in Brisbane in small batches or to order—Ukiyo ticks all the boxes for sustainability. Everyone of their pieces is also made to last, so you know that when you buy one of their floaty linen dresses it’ll be a staple in your wardrobe for years to come. We also love the Little House On The Prairie vibes, because who doesn’t love a ruffled gingham midi dress?
Girl And The Sun
Queensland born and bred, Girl And The Sun just made their Brisbane Fashion Festival debut and it’s about time their stunning designs hit the catwalk. With collections inspired by dreamy destinations, delicate detailing meets floaty fabrics and gorgeous floral prints for outfits that will put you in a vacation state of mind. Personally, we’re going to be rocking their midi dresses all summer long.
Alice Nightingale
Based right here in Fortitude Valley, or California Lane to be exact, is the technicoloured cabin of Alice Nightingale. Pieces adorned in loud prints and cheeky Australiana references will add a welcome pop of personality to your wardrobe; whether it be a blouse, skirt, dress or playsuit that’s caught your eye. She also does some seriously cool accessories, like a ruffled quilt handbag as well as one off pieces.
By Shyanne
Want to add some serious ethical and sustainable cred to your wardrobe? By Shyanne’s collections are all designed and created here in Brisbane using fabrics sourced from a locally owned company in Perth, Western Australia. You’ll have to be quick though, because these summer staples don’t last long—if you want to see where they all went, just head to Mr Percival's.
White Label Noba
An iconic Brisbane fashion label that has been around for over 10 years, White Label Noba is known for its vibrant collections designed to suit women of all sizes. Owner Tracey Watkins started the label because she couldn’t find clothes in her size that made her look and feel good—and White Label Noba has been filling wardrobes with gorgeous dresses, tops, pants and skirts in outrageous patterns and designs ever since.
Jericho Road Clothing
If you love a bold print, you’ll love Jericho Road Clothing, who’s colourful patterns are a signature of the brand. Using natural fabrics with patterns designed by local artists, every one of their collections seems more vibrant than the last and we love it. You will definitely stand out from the crowd in one of these fits, so prepare yourself for endless compliments.
Une Piece
It may have started out as just a swimwear brand (and a must-have swimwear brand at that), but Une Piece now also creates a range of dreamy outerwear, including more than a few beachy dresses that we’ve got our eye on. The kind of fits that will take you from brunch to beach to bar, these wardrobe staples are as essential for summer as one of Une Piece’s iconic one-piece rashies.
Palm Noosa
Crafting their floaty designs from the Sunshine Coast, Palm Noosa is all about contemporary femininity and carefree aesthetics, with a collection of fits that will have you longing for salty hair and sun kissed cheeks. Using light, breezy fabrics in a range of quirky prints perfect for our sweltering summers, their collections include maxi dresses and sets that might just be your new summer go-tos, as well as shorts and shirts for the guys.
Gloria Dulcie
Not into patterns or bright colours? We’ve got you and your monochrome wardrobe covered. Luxury slow fashion label Gloria Dulcie, which can be found at The Calile if you like to browse, is all about soft linens in just a handful of shades. Simple and sophisticated, each piece is supremely functional and designed for every season.
Meanwhile, here's 27 of the best Australian fashion labels to know about.
Image credit: Ukiyo