Bianca Spender On The Importance Of Sustainability In Fashion

“I strongly believe that fashion should represent our future and have a distinct social conscience.”

Being the daughter of an Australian Fashion Matriarch, Bianca Spender was born into the industry, “Since a young age I’ve always had an appreciation for fashion and a definitive idea of my taste. My first memory of this is sitting in my mum’s bedroom, telling her what to wear!” the Australian designer says of her earliest memories of fashion. Now, with over two decades of experience, Bianca Spender has cemented her own individual identity as a leading womenswear designer, while keeping sustainability a focus of the brand since its inception. Read on for our interview with the designer and to discover why Bianca Spender has a place in THE ICONIC’s Considered Edit.

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Why is sustainability so important to the brand?
“Our core focus is to reduce the impact of climate change through the reduction of our carbon footprint and since creating the brand we’ve been deeply committed to holistic responsible business practices and to support the local Australian manufacturing industry.”

“I strongly believe that fashion should represent our future and have a distinct social conscience. Around 90% of the Australian garment workforce is made up of females and I’m so proud to produce our complete collection locally in Australia, accredited by Ethical Clothing Australia, supporting the industry and empowering women.”

“I’m a huge advocate for keeping manufacturing onshore in Australia. Our complete collections are made in Australia, with much of the design, development and production overseen in Sydney.”

What are some ways you have engaged sustainability into the Spring collection?
“For the Spring collection I was so inspired by colour and the concept of contrast and space between the vibrant hues and the more muted, tertiary tones. I’m always influenced by our natural Australian landscape, and I wanted the collection to capture the essence of our environment.”

“One of the biggest environmental impacts of the fashion industry is the production of raw materials. We work to reduce our carbon footprint by using fabrics that are overproduced and would otherwise be destroyed or disposed of. Around 50% of the fabrics we have used within the Spring collection are remnant fabrics. Beyond that, as a brand, we also have a strong focus on natural fibres and fabrics that have an ease about them and offer longevity within your wardrobe.”

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What lessons have you learnt from your decade in the fashion industry?
“I’ve learnt to be true to myself and to keep an open mind. My most creative work is done when I surround myself with inquisitive people who ask compelling questions and challenge me to elevate the concepts. The mantra I like to live by is ‘be the change you want to see.’”

What gives you the most inspiration?
“I take the most inspiration from being immersed in nature. I love to swim in the ocean or walk through the bush to cure creative blocks. I would also say that I am creatively recharged by spending time with curious minds. I have a really diverse group of friends, from art curators to political strategists to actors and filmmakers who consistently teach me and spark ideas.”

Who would you say your label is designed for?
“When I design, the woman I have in mind is independent and a dreamer. She isn’t influenced by trends, she has a social conscience and she has her own distinct voice and aesthetic.”

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How do beautiful clothes fit into life as we know it at the moment, with lockdowns and ever-changing restrictions?
“I’ve always been interested in fusing beauty into my everyday life, and I’ve continued this ethos throughout lockdown. For me, dressing each day has allowed me to express myself and explore the joys of fashion! My personal aesthetic is centred around the contrasting look of a relaxed silhouette with something more sculptural.”

And what’s your favourite thing to do when you have some time to yourself?
“At the moment I have been enjoying trawling through my art books when I have a moment to spare. The Fashion in Duration exhibition at The Met influenced my latest collection for Spring. It explores how fashion evolves and reacts to the zeitgeist and shifting cultural landscape.”

“I also love to swim in the ocean at Bronte when I can, to call a friend somewhere in the world for thought provoking conversation and to take a bath!”

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