Sustainable fashion in New Zealand has moved well beyond hemp tote bags and shapeless linen. Today's eco conscious brands are producing clothes that look just as good (often better) than their fast fashion counterparts, with the added benefit of being kinder to the planet.
Whether you are just starting to think about building a more sustainable wardrobe or you are already committed to conscious consumption, here are some of the best sustainable fashion brands you can shop in New Zealand right now.
Kowtow
No list of sustainable NZ fashion would be complete without Kowtow. This Wellington based brand has been championing ethical fashion since 2007, using 100% certified fairtrade organic cotton across their entire range. Every piece is designed in New Zealand and produced in certified ethical factories.
Kowtow's strength is in their basics and wardrobe staples. Think beautifully cut tees, relaxed trousers, and simple dresses in a muted, earthy colour palette. The quality is exceptional, and these are pieces that will last for years.
Checks Downtown
Checks Downtown brings sustainability to the streetwear world. The brand is intentional about its manufacturing processes and material choices, producing collections that feel current and relevant while maintaining a commitment to doing things the right way.
Their aesthetic leans into bold patterns and relaxed silhouettes, proving that sustainable streetwear can have just as much personality as anything else on the market.
Gramicci
Originally a climbing brand from California, Gramicci has become a favourite among the sustainable streetwear crowd. Their signature pants, made with durable organic cotton, are practically indestructible and only get better with age. The brand's commitment to longevity and quality over disposability aligns perfectly with sustainable fashion principles.
Gramicci's approach to sustainability is refreshingly practical: make clothes so well that people keep them for years. No greenwashing, no gimmicks, just genuinely good products built to last.
Building a Sustainable Wardrobe
The most sustainable wardrobe is not about buying everything from eco certified brands overnight. It is about making better choices gradually. Start with the items you wear most often (tees, jeans, everyday pants) and invest in quality versions from brands that align with your values.
Look for materials like organic cotton, hemp, Tencel, and recycled fibres. Pay attention to where and how garments are made. And perhaps most importantly, buy things you genuinely love and will wear repeatedly, rather than chasing every new trend.
Shop Sustainable Fashion at Wally
At Wally, we stock a growing range of brands that take sustainability seriously, including Kowtow, Checks Downtown, Gramicci, and others. Browse our collections at wally.co.nz or visit us in Takapuna to see the range in person. Our team is always happy to chat about the brands we carry and their approach to ethical production.