Seven Canberra designers to watch
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While it can sometimes feel like the uniform of the city is a black puffer jacket and sneakers, there is a growing number of Canberrans designing their way to a more stylish capital.
So, next time you’re hunting for a new piece to add to your wardrobe, look outside the mainstream and check out these Canberra-based designers.
Knit by Peonies
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Created based on the principle that life is too short to wear boring clothes, Knit by Peonies is inspired by fairy tales, femininity, and florals. All knitwear is handmade in Adele’s apartment in Canberra from reclaimed and natural or lower-impact fibres, so each piece is unique and sustainable.
Her designs started as custom pieces and gifts for friends and are now available for purchase at Braddon’s own Blonde Concept.
Knit by Peonies recently collaborated with Heart Couture to create a line of bonnets and rosettes, which incorporate repurposed lace, ribbon, and buttons. The result is a line of beautiful, intentional one-of-one pieces for outfits that deserve that little extra romance.
Heart Couture
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Heart Couture’s handcrafted, one-of-a-kind pieces will be sure to add a little whimsy to your wardrobe. Using sustainable, upcycled garments, this local brand has something for everyone – from breakfast tees to blueberry tanks, princess tees and candy tops.
Their recent collaboration with Knit by Peonies has single-handedly brought romance and vintage-inspired style to Canberra’s fashion scene.
You can find their pieces at Blonde Concept in Braddon.
Katinka the Label
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What began as a lockdown project in 2022 by co-founders Mathilde and Maisie has travelled from its beginnings in Canberra to Copenhagen and Melbourne.
With Danish heritage, Mathilde travelled to Copenhagen in 2024 to learn more from Scandinavia’s fashion capital.
Now, the brand exudes the chicness of Danish minimalism, while playing with fun polka-patterns. From its lockdown start in Canberra to becoming a brand worn by fashionistas around the world – this brand is definitely one to watch.
Minami Studios
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Minami Studios is creating timeless, capsule pieces with seamless designs that are intertwined with culture. The brand is a modern homage to the luxurious silhouettes of Japan’s Edo period – when merchants expressed their success through hidden linings, tailoring and subtle design flair.
Born and raised in Canberra, founder Kai Mckenzie moves back and forth from the capital to Japan to reconnect with his heritage and take in the inspiration.
As each collection is made to order, Kai is pushing back against mass production – focusing on natural fibres and garments that are made to last.
Katie Shanahan Jewellery
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Hand-made in her studio in Canberra, Katie Shanahan specialises in hand-crafted, unique contemporary rings, earrings and pendants.
After receiving training at the School of Art and Design at ANU, Katie has combined traditional gold and silversmithing techniques to create truly special pieces for everyday wear – or to customise for those special occasions.
Mick’s Collections
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These African-inspired handmade designs are redefining inclusivity and self-expression in the most eclectic way. Made and designed right here in Canberra, Mick’s Collections is where culture meets style.
Recently appearing on the Sydney Chic Magazine runway this April, Mick’s Collections is bringing vibrancy and fun to Canberra’s fashion scene – one design at a time.
Sassy by Sharmin Aziz
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If you’re looking for a truly unique piece to add to your jewellery box, look no further than Sassy.
The founder, Sharmin Aziz, is a Canberra-based designer specialising in handcrafted, hypoallergenic pieces made with natural gemstones, freshwater pearls, artisan glass beads, and advanced gold plating.
No two pieces are the same – Sharmin believes your jewellery should be as unique as you are.
