As the fashion world reckons with its environmental impact, a new wave of designers is redefining what it means to create—and to consume—clothing. The rise of slow fashion and upcycling has transformed discarded textiles into sought-after treasures, with more consumers seeking garments that tell a story, honor the past, and tread lightly on the planet. This shift toward circularity and craftsmanship is reshaping the industry, proving that style and sustainability can go hand in hand. Remnants is a standout in this evolving landscape. Founded in Tāmaki Makaurau and led by a wahine entrepreneur, the label crafts one-of-a-kind garments from vintage, deadstock, and secondhand textiles—each piece a tangible link between memory, place, and purpose. With every stitch, Remnants salvages the beauty of forgotten fabrics, weaving nostalgia and care into clothing that feels both deeply personal and refreshingly modern. In embracing the stories woven into every fabric, Remnants invites us all to wear not just clothes, but meaningful connections to our past, our community, and a more mindful future.
A Local, Wahine-Led Brand Weaving Nostalgia into Fashion
Founded by a wahine entrepreneur in Tāmaki Makaurau, Remnants is more than just a label—it’s a movement. Inspired by summers under striped umbrellas, walks to the corner dairy, damp concrete after the rain, and late nights by the fire, the brand channels the intimate, unspoken language of Aotearoa’s past into every thread and seam. These moments of sensory memory—warm sand, rough blankets, the scent of wet grass—are reimagined into fashion that grounds its wearers in place and time. With a nod to the 70s and 80s and a deep respect for the materials already among us, Remnants pieces are nostalgic without being dated, playful without being impractical, and bold without being wasteful. More than just garments, they are heirlooms in the making. Every item is handmade by local sewists paid above a living wage, and the brand partners with wahine-led production houses that honour the craft and value of every hand involved. Remnants isn’t just building a label; it’s rebuilding the fashion industry from the ground up—intentionally, inclusively, and with deep respect for land and lineage.
Built for the Future — With Fabric, Care, and Consciousness
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for Remnants—it’s the guiding practice behind every decision. The brand’s commitment to circular fashion includes using offcuts from their own production to create zero-waste designs and limited-edition pieces. Deadstock and remnant materials are sourced from local businesses across Aotearoa, further supporting the regional economy and closing the loop between fashion and community. Where possible, organic and natural fibres are prioritised—not only for their reduced environmental footprint, but also for their comfort, breathability, and long-term durability. The production model is intentionally slow and small-scale, with most pieces made-to-order to prevent overproduction and unnecessary landfill contribution. Even packaging is thoughtfully selected to be recyclable or biodegradable, including a switch to recycled courier bags based on what’s actually practical for customers. And beyond the garments themselves, Remnants remains open, responsive, and always evolving—welcoming feedback, adapting practices, and continuing to grow into a business that doesn’t just talk sustainability, but lives it with every stitch. This is fashion designed with purpose—for people, planet, and future generations.
To know more visit:
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/remnantsshop
Website- https://remnants.co.nz
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