The evolution of Australian fashion has been, for those watching, a fascinating event. While still inspired by a lifestyle that enjoys perennially welcoming climate, it’s no longer the graphic surfwear or shredded denim it once was.

Today, Australian designers – particularly menswear – is marked by its elevated approach to leisure and casual codes. Clothes are versatile – equally at home by the beach we so love or used to create a minimal sense of luxury.

To get the season going, here are our favourite Australian menswear designers who we are tapping into to create the perfect summer wardrobe.

Bassike

bassike

The OG brand that set the benchmark for casual luxury. Made locally in Australia and a certified B Corp company, bassike has become synonymous with relaxed fits and clothing that promises comfort and quality. Their T-shirts and beach pull on pants are everyday staples for anyone who wants a multifunctional wardrobe. It’s simple, minimalist aesthetic is ideal for those who require elegant, leisurely style without fuss.

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Charlton

Charlton

Founded in 2018 by Henry Cousins and Huw Bennett (who was the man behind once-everywhere brand Vanishing Elephant), Sydney-based brand Charlton promises a simple premise: elevated menswear made using premium materials at a reasonable price point. Coasting between resort and casual, Charlton brings into focus a polished perspective of contemporary menswear. Our favourite: the merino wool shirting made with 100 percent Woolmark approved merino wool.

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Venroy

VENROY

Bondi-based Venroy has gone from strength to strength, opening stores in dream holiday destinations, from Byron Bay all the way to the island of Capri. The brand’s perennial “on holiday” vibe has made it a favourite for guys who like their weekend kit to look like they’ve just stepped off the yacht. What they do best is a sense of lightness in their garments, whether it be linen shirting, tencel shorts or the chunky, loose knits to throw over on a chilly morning.

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haydenshapes

Haydenshapes

Surf might be in Hayden Cox’s blood – he even designs some of the world’s best boards – but for his clothing line the multi-hyphenate designer has taken a more utilitarian approach. For the most part a monochromatic wardrobe, Cox adds the right amount of flourish to each piece whether that’s in the form of a deconstructed dying technique or patchwork to deliver textural depth. Sizing is generous with a comfortable bulkiness that remains within the parameters of luxe casual. The second release continues the tone of the first but with more elevated pieces, including merino wool shirting and cargo trousers with tailored elements.

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COMMAS

No summer wardrobe would be complete without COMMAS. The brand has become a byword for clothing that transcends seasonal and even occasion dressing. Rather, the brand launched by Richard Jarman finds inspiration in the inbetween moments. How this translates into clothing is via a meditative aesthetic with a silhouette that is fluidly androgynous. Even the recently arrived suiting is unstructured, relying instead on the inherent integrity of the fibres to provide a sense of tailoring supported by the natural lines of the body.

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