Last month Country Road released its “Australian Made” T-shirt, created with Good Earth cotton from NSW and embedded with FibreTrace technology so that you can see (via QR code) where it was dyed, cut and sewn.
Much of Cue’s clothing is still made in Australia, and Oroton has begun using hemp and recycled leather in its collections.
But back to what they offer in style.
What these brands do well is take trends and translate them for the everyday, at fair prices in quality fabrics. They also tend to have broader size ranges than more exclusive brands, and more stock.
Take this hobo-style bag from Oroton, with its bamboo handle. It’s chic enough to carry to work, but without an exorbitant price tag.
Luxury for less at Oroton, where handbags are well-made and well-priced.
At Country Road, slightly slouchy suits made with linen are polished enough for the office but can also withstand summer temperatures.
Be aware of fit when it comes to mid-tier clothing. Don’t be afraid to have hems taken up, waistbands taken in or jacket sleeves changed. Remember that these clothes are made for a wide range of women, not for you specifically. Make them look like they were made for you with simple tailoring (it is, quite honestly, the key to looking pulled together).
Hightail it to the high street – and happy shopping.
Do you have a style question for How to Wear It? Email our fashion editor, Lauren Sams, with your query: lauren.sams@afr.com
