Gorman is one of Australia's most recognisable fashion brands, known for its vibrant, playful, and artistic prints. Since its launch in 1999, the brand has cultivated a strong following among fashion-conscious consumers who appreciate quirky designs and bold colours. However, questions often arise about where Gorman clothes are made, the brand’s ethical practices, and alternative brands with similar aesthetics. This article provides an in-depth look at Gorman clothing, including ownership, production, and ethical concerns, as well as affordable alternatives for those who love its style.
Where is Gorman Clothing Made?
Gorman clothing is designed in Australia but manufactured in various locations, including China. The brand, like many other fashion labels, outsources production to overseas factories due to cost efficiency and the ability to scale operations. While outsourcing is a common practice, it raises concerns about ethical production standards, which we will discuss later in this article.
Who Owns Gorman Clothing?
Gorman was founded by Lisa Gorman in Melbourne in 1999. The brand quickly gained a loyal customer base with its distinctive, colourful, and artistic designs. However, in 2016, Lisa Gorman sold the brand to Factory X, an Australian fashion group that also owns brands such as Dangerfield, Alannah Hill, and Jack London. While Lisa Gorman remained with the company for a period after the acquisition, she has since stepped away from the brand entirely.
Is Gorman Clothing Ethical?
Gorman promotes itself as a sustainable and ethical fashion brand, often collaborating with artists and using organic and recycled fabrics. However, the brand has faced scrutiny over its supply chain transparency and ethical credentials.
According to the Ethical Fashion Report by Baptist World Aid, Gorman has received mixed ratings for its ethical practices. While the company has taken steps toward sustainability, such as using organic cotton and working with Fair Trade-certified suppliers, there are still gaps in its transparency regarding factory conditions and workers’ wages. Some customers and ethical fashion advocates argue that more could be done to ensure fair labour practices and environmental responsibility throughout the supply chain.
Brands Similar to Gorman
If you love Gorman's aesthetic but are looking for alternatives, several brands offer similarly bold and quirky designs. Here are a few that might appeal to you:
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Obus – Another Melbourne-based brand known for its artistic prints, Obus offers stylish and sustainable clothing, often made in Australia.
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Kuwaii – A slow-fashion brand that focuses on timeless, well-made pieces with a touch of artistic flair.
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Nancybird – Specialising in accessories and apparel, Nancybird collaborates with artists to create unique prints and textiles.
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Leonard St. – A colourful and playful brand with a strong emphasis on unique, artistic patterns.
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Ginger & Smart – A more refined take on bold prints, blending contemporary fashion with sustainability efforts.
Brands Similar to Gorman But Cheaper
Gorman's price point can be out of reach for some shoppers, but several brands offer a similar aesthetic at a more affordable price:
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Dangerfield – Owned by the same parent company as Gorman, Dangerfield offers vibrant prints at a lower price point.
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Princess Highway – A sister brand to Dangerfield, Princess Highway is known for its retro-inspired prints and affordable pricing.
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Cotton On – While not as bold as Gorman, Cotton On occasionally releases quirky, fun prints at a fraction of the cost.
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Boohoo & ASOS – Fast fashion brands like Boohoo and ASOS sometimes carry playful, print-heavy collections similar to Gorman’s aesthetic.
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Sportsgirl – A mainstream Australian brand that occasionally offers quirky, colourful designs at mid-range prices.
Final Thoughts
Gorman remains one of Australia's most popular fashion brands, thanks to its distinctive, playful prints and strong brand identity. While it has taken steps towards ethical and sustainable production, there is still room for improvement in supply chain transparency. For those who love Gorman’s aesthetic but are looking for more ethical or budget-friendly alternatives, there are plenty of options available, ranging from independent sustainable brands to affordable high-street retailers.
Whether you stick with Gorman or explore alternatives, the most important thing is to make informed choices that align with your values and budget. Fashion should be fun, but it can also be responsible!
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