5 Australian Designers to Have on Your Radar
By Orion Scott
19 July 2026
Editorial
4 min read
It’s no secret that when it comes to understated style excellence, Australians sit up there on the list.
Effortless, chic, and rich with resort-like glamour, Down Under fashion has caught the attention of some of the world's most notable names for decades, and rightfully so. From Hailey Bieber and Kaia Gerber to Bella Hadid and Dua Lipa, the most cultivated IT girls from around the globe know a good thing when they see it, and more often than not, it happens to be Australian designers.
On the forefront, brands such as Zimmermann, Christopher Esber, Rebecca Vallance, Aje, |
Alémais and Bec & Bridge have all secured themselves a spot in the wardrobes of the aforementioned, donned to lavish red carpet events, Hollywood premieres, sun-soaked vacations and everything in between.
These brands might have made a formidable, lasting mark on the industry, their influence unmatched and creative brilliance utterly enviable, but it seems there are a few up-and-coming contenders on their way to doing the same.
From Melbourne-based made-to-measure to Sydneysider silhouettes, we take a deep dive into some of the nation's most talked-about designers and brands to have on your radar right now. If we know anything, it’s that Australia is really good at producing cutting-edge creatives, and the list below is proof of just that.
Karlaidlaw
Karlaidlaw Circus Pant in Marone/Red
IYKYK. It’s hard to walk down any street in Melbourne's inner north without seeing something from Karlaidlaw adorned on the frame of a fashionable city stomping resident, making it arguably one of the hottest labels to know right now. Described as a streetwear brand that “indulges in the experimental”, Karlaidlaw is for the visionaries who wear their creativity on their sleeve. Vivacious velvet sweatpants (if they’re not sold out), crop cut-out hoodies, barely there basics, and sequins galore, Karlaidlaw is Charli XCX personified.
My Mum Made It
My Mum Made It SS26 Trousseau Dress
Brisbane-born brand My Mum Made It is the definition of ‘whimsy-maxing’, and that’s exactly why we love it. Fresh out of school and on a mission to create something new out of something old, founder Nyree Leckenby took to her mum's sewing machine with an old bed sheet, and the rest is history. With a belief that “nothing beautiful should ever be discarded”, Nyrere has made a conscious effort to only produce in small, considered batches, prioritise natural fibres, and minimise waste by giving new life to offcuts in the form of practically perfect purses, berets, brooches and other small accessories.
Commas
Commas Island Embroidery Bowling Shirt
If relaxed silhouettes, calming tones and carefully crafted textures are your thing, then menswear label Commas needs to be on your radar. Founded in 2017 by Richard Jarman and inspired by a deep connection to the ocean, Commas is the answer to making modern menswear uncomplicated. Just like its name, Commas and its product range invite wearers to stop, take a breath and appreciate the world around them.
Emily Watson
Emily Watson Tankini Skirt and Top in recycled Lycra from the ‘All Stars’ collection
If it’s good enough for Miss Bella Hadid, then you best believe it’s good enough for us! Founded in 2020, Emily Watson has effortlessly captured the essence that is ‘cool girl’ Australian style, blurring the line between traditional swimwear and avant-garde excellence. Frills, figure-hugging cuts, cropped hemlines, and vibrant hues are all synonymous with the Brunswick-based brand, so if you like something a little bold and don’t mind being stopped on the street to answer questions about where you got your outfit, Emily Watson is your gal.
Studio Marlene
Studio Marlene The Marlene Shirt in Black
Identifying as more of a project than a brand, Studio Marlene and its business model are most definitely an interesting one. Rather than producing seasonal collections of multiple garments like traditional fashion houses, the Melbourne-based label focuses on just two items- albeit both exceptional in every way. Not only does the small product selection make securing a piece feel like the ultimate fashion flex, but you can also rest assured that considered design is at the forefront of everything Studio Marlene does.
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