Eight Local Labels Weigh In on What Makes Adelaide Fashion Unique

Adelaide Fashion Week is back for another year. Broadsheet caught up with industry legends and newcomers alike to understand where South Australian fashion stands in 2025 – and what makes it so special.

Van Brussel

Rachel Van Brussel has captured an audience with her bold, expressive take on clothing at Van Brussel. The streetwear-inspired collection focuses on timeless silhouettes, thoughtful details and a genuine approach to sustainability. For Van Brussel – who has lived and worked in Milan, London, Melbourne and Japan – Adelaide’s fashion scene has a distinct sense of authenticity and individuality.

“There’s a strong focus on craftsmanship, sustainability and storytelling through design. Designers here aren’t afraid to push boundaries, while still staying connected to the community. It feels less about trends and more about creating something with depth and meaning.”

The Wolf Gang

The Wolf Gang has made its name creating vintage-inspired silhouettes that don’t shy away from colour and texture. Founder Vanessa Pearce used to find being based outside of Sydney or Melbourne quite limiting, but she’s learnt to embrace being from Adelaide as part of her brand’s story.

“There’s incredible talent here, and it’s finally getting an opportunity to shine. Adelaide is a beautiful place to live and work, but I think it also forces creatives here to think globally, drawing inspiration from bigger cities and cultures. We’re proud to say we’re an Adelaide design studio but we’re collaborating with artists and makers across the world to create something distinctive and special.”

Yaneth

Yaneth – pronounced ja-nette – is a sustainable label that spotlights natural fibres, particularly Australian merino wool. For founder and designer Cathy Karuga, the point of difference in South Australian fashion is the wide range of perspectives working in the industry.

“We’re a tight-knit community of designers who genuinely support each other, yet each of us has a laser-focused vision of our customer and our brand. That mix of wholehearted support and individuality is unique to Adelaide. Being a smaller city fosters a deep respect for rich creativity, craftsmanship and culture.”

Katya Komarova

Katya Komarova launched her eponymous label in 2014. Focusing on bags and accessories, Komarova moved her studio from Sydney’s Surry Hills to a space in the heritage Epworth Building about five years ago. Connecting with South Australian fashion has been about leaning into the craftsmanship and quality that defines the local scene.

“South Australian brands place great emphasis on refining their products and ensuring they stand the test of time. I’m proud to work alongside such dedicated and talented people.”

Couture Love Madness

Cristina Tridente’s label Couture Love Madness captures a whimsical approach to Australian fashion. Fans of the brand flock to the Norwood flagship store for bridal designs, as well as seasonal collections. Tridente’s pieces have been spotted on red carpets in Australia and across the world; musicians like Lisa and Jessica Origliasso of The Veronicas, Amy Shark and Vera Blue have all worn her looks.

“We have such a variety of local labels here in Adelaide. I really think everyone brings their own offering and offers something unique.”

23rd August

Emerging label 23rd August will debut as part of the Future Collective runway this year. But founder and designer Nini Wang isn’t new to the Adelaide fashion scene – she’s worked with local favourites Significant Other, C/meo Collective, Finders Keepers and Binny. Wang adores the local industry’s distinctive spirit.

“It’s creative, bold, and unafraid to experiment, yet still deeply connected to lifestyle and community. There’s a raw authenticity here, with designers who are willing to take risks while staying true to their roots and, just as importantly, a culture of sharing and supporting one another.”

Acler

Acler’s co-founders Kathryn Forth and Julia Ritorto believe that South Australian fashion is created from a pure place of creativity. The design duo – who have shown at Australian Fashion Week in Sydney a number of times – are dedicated to their local audience and industry peers.

“So much of the process here begins with fabric – through draping, manipulation or experimenting with texture – and is shaped by influences that often come from outside of traditional fashion references, whether that’s the environment or personal experience. Our location has shaped this approach in its own way, giving us the space to develop a voice that feels distinctive and true to who we are.”

Naducaa

Headwear designer Nadia Mahmoud founded her label Naducaa to bring globally inspired pre-wrapped turbans to modern Australian women. She’s made a name for her brand with unique accessories that celebrate the wearer’s self-expression – and the local community.

“The uniqueness of South Australian fashion lies in its deep-rooted connection to culture and the local environment. Adelaide emphasises boutique shopping over fast fashion, embodying an effortless yet playful elegance.”

ADL Fashion Week runs from October 8 to 12. More details are available online.

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