It’s getting to that time of year when we dust off our winter coats, shine up the boots and prepare ourselves for the onslaught of The Frozen Apocalypse, otherwise known as winter.
If you’ve followed my adventures for a while you’ll know I’m a big sook when it comes to cold weather.
If only I were a bear. I could hibernate throughout the cold months and emerge, just in time for spring, feeling fresh and several kilos lighter!
If you’re brave enough to venture outside for the next four months, you might be needing something to wear. So, I’ve put together my ultimate guide to ethical and sustainable winter fashion brands.
Featured image source: Viktoria and Woods
Jeans
The Melbourne based label makes their denim in a training and production facility in Cambodia. Founder James started the Denim Project when he realised there was a need to provide sustainable employment for women rescued from the trafficking trade and sex industry. They have a small selection but timeless designs made to last.
The UK based brand have a HUGE selection of denim for guys and girls. The range includes organic jeans from Indonesia, ethically produced jeans from Turkey and grassroots jeans made in England. All fairly made and well priced.
An Aussie favourite, most people have owned a pair of Nobody jeans at some stage I their lives. Ethical Clothing Australia accredited, lot’s of styles to choose from and flattering fits for every body type. Cult Skinnies will become your BFF.
The Dutch denim brand introduced ‘Lease A Jeans’ in 2013 as an approach to offer guilt-free consumption. Based on the principles of a circular economy you lease the jeans for a monthly fee, keep them as long as you like and return them when you’re done. Once returned, they’re either leased again or made into a new pair. Genius!
Boots
Trenery are on old favourite for classic designs made to last. I love them for winter staples because they’re reasonably priced, have regular sales and their shoes have a timeless quality, which is great when investing in winter boots. Trenery falls under the Country Road Group umbrella, which is not perfect but doing a lot better than other Aussie mainstream brands in terms of labour rights and sustainability.
US based but fast and cheap shipping to Aus. I fell in love with the Ecuador Sandals which have been glued to my feet since they arrived in the mail. Fantastic quality, the price is a little on the higher side but they are made to last.
Originally designed for the outback, RM Williams have brought out some gorgeous, wearable styles in recent years. Another Ethical Clothing Australia brand, they are expensive but think of them as an investment you will love and wear over a lifetime. Hubby has a pair he has worn almost daily for four years with minimal signs of wear.
This one stop shop is the ultimate place to stock upon most your wardrobe needs. They have only recently offered shipping to Aus which is reasonably priced and fast. My last order took about a week. I like that you can pick up a knit or a top while you shop for boots. They also have a great range for men.
Coats
These guys are a personal favourite for great quality winter wardrobe staples. They have a gorgeous range of coats this year, including some casual and lightweight options. The brands under the Country Road Group umbrella are considered fast fashion but that really comes down to you as the consumer. Invest in quality, timeless pieces and you won’t need to keep buying.
Hands down one of my favourite Australian brands. Ethical Clothing Australia accredited, they constantly bring out fresh, modern styles which still manage to have that timeless feel. This years winter range is no exception.
An Australian brand I only discovered late last year. Their clothes are ethically made in Aus and they have physical stores in Victoria and South Australia. They have some beautiful coats and jackets available in both wool and cotton, for those living in warmer climates.
There is nothing in this shop I don’t love and you can try them on IRL. Consider Veronika Maine as an investment. They cost a little more up front but I can attest to the fact the clothes will last for years. Also Ethical Clothing Australia accredited.
Knits
From our neighbours across the pond, think soft, luxurious drapey knits using GOTS Certified Organic dyes. A great range of colours if you’re not into the usual black and beige we see most winters. The men’s selection is fantastic as well. They also donate a portion of every sale to the Untouched World Charitable Trust for future sustainable leadership education.
All the knitted layering basics you will ever need. The Ethical Clothing Australia accredited brand proudly shows the people behind our purchases. They also make clothes for men, kids and babies. A one stop, winter shop for the whole family.
A wonderful Australian brand with a completely transparent supply chain and the most amazing designs. The oversized knits will leave you feeling rugged up, warm and super cosy. Be sure to check out the beautiful knit dresses.
Recently voted best Australian fashion brand, Cue is a must have for every ladies wardrobe. My three year old knits are still in fantastic, as new condition. With a little love and care, you will own your Cue pieces for many, many years.
