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What does the concept of ethical fashion mean to you?
For me, shopping ethically is all about checking in with myself and thinking twice before making a purchase both for my family. As a mother, from the moment you discover that you are pregnant, you’re inundated with information (and Google Ads!) telling you what you “must” buy for your baby. For me, shopping ethically is about cutting through this noise to think about what we really need, and how an item of clothing has been born.
What do you think should be done to promote ethical fashion?
As a journalist, whenever I write about environmental issues, there is always a barrier in some people’s minds because they divide society into two camps – the eco-warriors and everyone else. This mindset is gradually changing but there is still a common belief that ethical fashion is either not accessible, not affordable or not practical for most people. We need to work on the message that it is for everyone.
What areas do you think fashion brands should be focusing on to create more socially and environmentally responsible business?
The price-range still needs to be addressed as that is a real barrier to entry for some people on a budget. Of course, there’s only so low you can go when you production process is fair and you’re actually paying your workers an appropriate wage. But I still think there’s some wiggle room for affordable ethical fashion brands to break into the market.
What role will smaller independent brands play in shaping the future of ethical fashion?
As a journalist, I’m all about storytelling and that is where independent brands can shine because often they have a personal back story we can fall in love with and, therefore, go out of our way to support them. I am far more loyal to brands when I know the person or people who have created them and why they were inspired to do so.
What are your favourite sustainable fashion brands?
I’m originally from the UK so grew up with Stella McCartney. Honestly, after years working in fashion magazines, these days I just don’t buy a lot of clothes or I gravitate towards op-shops. Soon we’ll welcome our first child and it can be challenging to find affordable, ethical baby clothes, knowing they’ll grow out of them in five minutes. I do love Boody’s bamboo range, Close modern reusable nappies and discovering crafters on Instagram who make baby clothes as a side-hobby.
Who is your style icon?
A few years ago, after a very testing time in my life, I made a vow to only wear bright colours for six months – and I haven’t looked back since. I love the power of clothes and accessories to flip your mental state so I admire anyone who looks like they’re having fun with their outfits and is exploring their own style with a smile on their face.
How has your style changed since you left fashion magazines?
I definitely dress for my own taste now rather than being dictated by other people’s expectations. When I became editor of Grazia Australia, I was only 26-years-old and had a dose of ‘imposter syndrome’ so I really just dressed to fit in on the front row. These days, I dress for the way I want to feel which means floatier, brighter clothes that I can move, create and explore in.
What is your favourite item in your wardrobe and why? Tell us the story.
My Patagonia hiking gear has a special place in my heart because it’s the one outfit I wore for an entire week on the expedition across the Tarkine rainforest where I met my now-husband. My husband is an environmentalist and I credit him with the shift in my mindset around sustainable living. Six years later, those Patagonia threads have been on many more adventures.
What’s your favourite Mighty Good Basics style and why?
Through my last two pregnancies, Mighty Good knickers have grown with me right up until I gave birth and beyond.
