Pattern Rich, Botanical, Classic Shapes, Natural Fibres.
Photographer: Michaela Barca. Models: Clare & Jess.
Ethically made. Locally made. Sustainable.
Esther Sandler started Togetherness as a way of exploring making products for the everyday with a focus on craft techniques, print and pattern.
Togetherness is located and manufactured in Melbourne, Victoria.
Who makes your clothes?
The majority of Togetherness products are made in house at our studio by the designer Esther Sandler, with some sewing outsourced to a local seamstress during times of heavy demand. All ceramics findings are made by Esther Sandler.
Can you share a little more about your values?
Locally Made: The majority of Togetherness products are made in house at our studio by the designer Esther Sandler, with some sewing outsourced to a local seamstress during times of heavy demand. As such, we are able to oversee the manufacturing process directly, and ensure that workers are treated fairly. Our ceramics are handmade by designer Esther Sandler with materials sourced and fired locally in Melbourne. We also aim to source our fabrics and findings locally where possible.
Sustainable: As a small business, Togetherness takes its environmental footprint very seriously and all decisions are made with this in mind. Materials focus on natural fibres which are thoughtfully considered for their durability and wearability while our garments are designed to be easy-to-wear, classic shapes that will stand the test of time, aiming to avoid the throwaway nature of trend driven fast fashion. Collections are not season specific and all garments are made in small quantities. The digital printing we use utilises a low impact process without the need for harmful chemicals and minimising water use, and the small quantities we print ensures low wastage. Our packaging for online and wholesale orders makes use of repurposed materials and all shipping is carbon neutral. We also aim to recycle or compost all waste from our studio where possible, including all fabric scraps, packaging and paper.
Which particular fabrics do you use?
Garments and accessories are made from natural fibres including linen, cotton and silk with stoneware ceramic buttons handmade by the designer Esther Sandler. Our ceramics are stoneware and painted with foodsafe glazes and underglazes. Materials focus on natural fibres which are thoughtfully considered for their durability and wearability while our garments are designed to be easy-to-wear, classic shapes that will stand the test of time, aiming to avoid the throwaway nature of trend driven fast fashion. Collections are not season specific and all garments are made in small quantities.
Any extra efforts you make at Togetherness that you can share?
We’ve also taken the step of considering environmental footprint beyond the making stage and have implemented sustainable packaging, carbon neutral shipping and recycling or composting of waste products at our studio. We are also excited to be moving to solar power at our studio for our ceramic firing in 2021! We also aim to use up our fabric scraps by making small batches of scrunchies and cushion covers from time to time.
Can you share some labels you admire?
Locally based labels such as Tara Whalley, Wolf and Mishka, Farn and Variety Hour.
Price guide: $0 – 50 up to $300 – 500
Size guide: XS, S, M, L XL
Want to get in touch with Esther at Togetherness:
togethernessdesign.com / @togethernessdesign / [email protected]
Designer Esther Sandler:
