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Courtesy of @_aje_
With wedding season back in full force, it's time to start searching for flowy, effortlessly chic dresses. And if you're looking for fresh, new designers to wear, consider brands from the land down under. Nobody creates easy-to-wear occasionwear quite like Australian designers — from beachside nuptials or more formal affairs. Not only are these brands incredibly stylish, but many of them also place an emphasis on sustainable practices — whether it's the fabric they use or their methods of products.
While Australian brands may be known for their carefree, fashion-forward sundresses, there are also numerous designers who focus on formalwear appropriate for cocktail or black-tie affairs. So whichever style dress you're searching for, there's an Australian designer that caters to your look.
Read on for some of the best Aussie brands to shop for as a wedding guest.
Aje.
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Courtesy of Aje.
Known for its contemporary and effortless occasion dresses, this Australian-based brand is the perfect go-to option for a warm-weather wedding. The brand was founded in 2008 by two best friends, Adrian Norris and Edwina Forest, both with a passion to create pieces that are “tough feminine.” In addition to their site and brick-and-mortar stores, Aje. can be found at major retailers including MatchesFashion, Moda Operandi, Intermix, and Shopbop.
Significant Other
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Courtesy of Significant Other
According to their website, Significant Other is “a ‘beach to bar’ brand for the modern woman”, making it a seemingly great choice for beach wedding attire. The brand incorporates lots of patterns and muted colors into its pieces, which capture a laidback yet chic look. They also have a bridesmaid edit that features silky, simple gowns.
Anna Quan
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Courtesy of Anna Quan
Anna Hoang graduated from fashion design school in 2011 and launched her brand, Anna Quan, in 2014. The brand caters to the modern, edgy woman — a far cry from the traditional boho, laidback style of other Aussie brands. So, if you’re looking for a more daring look for a wedding you’ll be attending, this is one brand not to miss.
Zimmermann
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Courtesy of Zimmermann
In 1991, Nicky and Simone Zimmermann launched their namesake brand which has become an iconic label known worldwide. It’s also a celeb favorite, and in fact, model Romee Strijd was spotted wearing a Zimmermann dress to a wedding. Their dresses fall on the pricer side but are great investment pieces — especially if you are attending multiple weddings.
Hansen & Gretel
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Courtesy of Hansen & Gretel
Not only is Hansen & Gretel an incredibly covetable Australian brand, but they also place a large emphasis on sustainable practices from their fabrics to their packaging. The brand has something for every style of wedding, whether it’s cocktail attire or sundress casual.
Talulah
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Courtesy of Talulah
Talulah is a luxury occasionwear brand from Australia that is committed to creating pieces that are both elegant and effortless. In addition to dresses and two-piece sets, the label also carries bags and shoes so you can get the complete look in just one stop.
Princess Polly
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Courtesy of Princess Polly
For affordable and fashion-forward pieces, look no further than the Australian boutique, Princess Polly. The brand has achieved international success in the past few years for its reasonably priced occasionwear looks. Princess Polly has two Australian offices (both on the Gold Coast) and recently opened an office in West Hollywood. Also, the label places an emphasis on sustainable practices and ethical sourcing of their fabrics
Bec + Bridge
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Courtesy of Bec + Bridge
Australian designers, Becky Cooper and Bridget Yorston met on their first day at Sydney’s University of Technology. The inseparable pair were coined ‘Bec and Bridge,” which has become the name of their beloved clothing brand. From formal maxi dresses to more revealing cut-out midi’s, you’re sure to find a dress for any and every occasion.
Réalisation Par
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Courtesy of Réalisation Par
Aussie brand, Realisation Par, is a favorite amongst fashionable celebs like Kendall Jenner and Emily Ratajkowski. The stylish line carries an array of whimsically patterned slip dresses that are perfect for a chic city wedding. We have a feeling you’ll be reaching for your RP dress well after the wedding is over.
Grace Loves Lace
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Courtesy of Grace Loves Lace
Best known for their Australian-made wedding dresses, you might be surprised to hear that the brand also has a stunning line of occasionwear looks. Sold online and in stores, Grace Loves Lace carries minimalist lace and silk gowns that can easily be dressed up or down. The brand’s newest showroom just opened in San Francisco, which features the occasionwear collection along with their bridal lines.
Sir The Label
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Courtesy of Sir The Label
Friends Nikki Campbell and Sophie Coote created Sir The Label in 2014 at the age of 24. The name, SIR, stands for separates, intimates, and ready-to-wear. Their pieces are largely inspired by ‘70s fashion and feature soft patterns and colors — with a large selection of effortlessly chic dresses and separates that are perfect for laidback nuptials.
Michael Lo Sordo
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Courtesy of Michael Lo Sordo
Australia has never been known for producing traditional high-fashion pieces, but Michael Lo Sordo is changing that. His brand creates minimalist, luxurious-looking occasionwear dresses for sophisticated and fashionable wedding guests. Prices are high but you’re guaranteed to be the best-dressed guest at any wedding you may be attending.