BASKET CASE

With a more sustainable future in our sights, Vogue dedicates space to the latest in positive-impact, ethical and environmentally sound fashion, in time for summer.

MARKET, BASKET, OR beach – a roster of labels offering the humble carryall bag are honouring its roots by working with artisans practising traditional handicrafts, while providing a proper wage. Maison Bengal, sold at My Chameleon, tackles poverty among women artisans in Bangladesh, as does Byron-based The Dharma Door, which asks jute weavers to set the price based on time it took to make each expertly crafted piece. Meanwhile, PR director Robyn Catinella has just launched Casa Catinella, employing more than 30 people in the villages of Bolgatanga in northern Ghana to make her quotidian-meets-quality, deep basket versions. Casa Catinella bags, $220.

TRACE ELEMENTS

From this month, local label Wolfgang Scout uses QR codes to reveal the woman artisan who made each of its knits. Similarly, Nobody Denim, uses QR codes and FibreTrace blockchain technology to reveal each step of the denim’s creation from cotton seed to store – true accountability. Nobody Denim jeans, $249.

FIRST NATIONS FASHION + DESIGN GUEST SPOTLIGHT ON: AARLI

Founder of label Aarli, TJ Cowlishaw is a board member of First Nations Fashion + Design, and her kinship lies with Nyikina people and paternal ties are with Bardi and Nyul Nyul people on the Dampier Peninsula, WA. Aarli was established in 2014 and specialises in upcycled streetwear and apparel. “Through my designs, I hope to empower the next generation of Indigenous youth,” she says.

HOLE LOTTA LOVE

Sarah & Sebastian opens its Piercing Studio early this year at its Paddington store, offering to add to your ear game via recycled metals and using materials from refiners on the Responsible Jewellery Council.