The world of fashion is in a state of flux, and we’re not just talking about the usual seasonal style shuffle that shakes up our wardrobes every time the temperature shifts. Recent years have seen a huge groundswell of support for the slow-fashion movement – a bucking of conventional manufacturing processes and a conscious shift in consumer mindsets. The way we consume and interact with the garments we wear is changing, thanks to an expansion of awareness of the social and environmental ramifications of the industry’s focus on mass-produced wares. Today, more and more consumers are pivoting towards making ethical, eco-friendly and longer-lasting choices when it comes to what they wear, and it’s this movement that sits at the heart of the latest edition of The Locals Panel Series presented by West Village.

On Wednesday July 24, several members of Brisbane’s fashion community will be sitting down at The Bromley Room #2 to discuss the industry at large, specifically how to slow down and stand out in the age of sustainably minded style. For the evening, we’ve gathered a who’s who of local fashion figures to share their insight on everything from sustainable making and styling smartly to their thoughts on what the future holds for fashion on a micro and macro level.

The one and only Laura Churchill will lead our esteemed panel, moderating the conversation and providing her own insights on the industry gleaned through her role as director of Brisbane Fashion Month. In addition to overseeing the month-long fashion extravaganza, Laura is also a leading fashion event producer, focusing on executing events that promote conversations around issues important to the field while also advocating for the industry as an attainable and relatable space for all comers.

Joining Laura for The Locals Panel Series is beloved local designer Alice Nightingale. The Brisbane-based maker has cultivated a loyal following with her label of eye-catching handmade garments, boasting a sizeable range of pieces imbued with quirky Australiana-inspired designs. Alice operates with a strong sustainable focus, predominantly working with vintage fabrics and repurposed second-hand wares. Alice Nightingale is currently celebrating ten years of her label’s existence, and her gorgeous California Lane boutique is a must-visit for Fortitude Valley fashionistas.

Also volunteering her time to join in on the discussion is Brittanie Dreghorn from leading online sustainable-fashion publication Britt’s List. Since 2017, Britt’s List has documented and profiled the best ethical brands to know, while also educating readers on what can be done to address unsustainable practices endemic in Australia’s fashion industry. In addition to maintaining Britt’s List as a vital resource, Brittanie also runs bi-monthly sustainable fashion tours through West End – the next of which is being held on August 3.

Our final panellist is founder of Sustainable Styling Karen Uhlmann – a strong advocate for feeling great, looking great and doing good with forward-thinking fashion. After 20 years in the health sector influencing wellness outcomes and system changes, Karen’s shift to fashion has seen her put a conscious mindset towards the environment, education, supporting the local retail community and self care. In addition to compiling looks that turn heads, Karen also goes the extra mile by backing brands that employ ethical manufacturing processes and business practices – helping consumers foster a healthy relationship with themselves, while acquainting them with labels that are setting a sustainable standard and leading the new wave of diligent design.

The Locals Panel Series will be taking place from 6:00 pm on Wednesday July 24 at West Village’s The Bromley Room #2. Tickets are on sale now and include a drink and nibbles on arrival. Hit the button below to snag a seat before they disappear!