Progress and persistent gaps in fashion leadership

The fashion industry has made significant strides toward inclusivity and diversity, but leadership positions still remain largely dominated by men. While women make up the majority of the global fashion workforce, they are underrepresented in executive roles, boardrooms, and creative directorships at major brands. This disparity highlights a persistent gap that continues to hinder true equality in the industry.

Despite the growing number of women-led brands and designers gaining recognition, the upper echelons of fashion leadership remain difficult to penetrate. Studies have shown that women hold less than 25% of leadership positions in top fashion companies, with even fewer women of colour represented at these levels. This lack of representation affects not only decision-making but also the way fashion is marketed, designed, and produced.

One of the key challenges is the systemic barriers that prevent women from advancing in their careers. Unequal access to funding, limited mentorship opportunities, and ingrained biases within the industry create obstacles that many women struggle to overcome. Additionally, the traditional structures of fashion houses and corporate brands often favour male leadership, making it harder for women to break through.

However, change is happening. More women are stepping into leadership roles, launching their own brands, and challenging the status quo. Organisations and initiatives dedicated to supporting female entrepreneurs in fashion are also gaining traction, providing resources and networks to help women succeed. While progress is evident, there is still much work to be done to ensure that women have equal opportunities to lead and shape the future of fashion.

Celebrating women-led brands making an impact

Women-led brands are not only reshaping the fashion industry but also challenging outdated norms and redefining success on their own terms. These brands prioritise inclusivity, sustainability, and ethical production, proving that fashion can be both stylish and socially responsible. By fostering diverse leadership and championing underrepresented voices, they are creating a more equitable industry for future generations.

One of the most significant impacts of women-led fashion brands is their commitment to representation. Many of these designers and entrepreneurs draw inspiration from their own experiences, ensuring that their collections reflect a wide range of body types, cultural backgrounds, and personal identities. This shift is particularly important in an industry that has historically favoured a narrow definition of beauty. By embracing diversity, these brands empower consumers to see themselves represented in fashion, fostering a deeper connection between brands and their audiences.

Beyond representation, women-led brands are also leading the charge in sustainability. Many female entrepreneurs prioritise ethical sourcing, environmentally friendly materials, and transparent supply chains. This focus on sustainability is not just a trend but a fundamental shift in how fashion is produced and consumed. By prioritising long-term impact over short-term profits, these brands are setting new standards for the industry and encouraging larger companies to follow suit.

Another defining characteristic of women-led fashion brands is their emphasis on community and collaboration. Many of these businesses actively support female artisans, small-scale producers, and local economies, ensuring that their success benefits a broader network of women. Whether through fair wages, mentorship programs, or initiatives that uplift marginalised communities, these brands are proving that fashion can be a force for good.

As more women take the reins in fashion, they are not only changing the way clothes are designed and produced but also redefining what leadership looks like. Their success serves as a powerful reminder that when women are given the opportunity to lead, they bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a commitment to meaningful change. By supporting women-led brands, consumers can play a role in fostering a more inclusive and sustainable fashion industry.

Five trailblazing brands redefining the industry

Across the fashion industry, a growing number of women-led brands are making waves by challenging conventions and setting new standards for inclusivity, sustainability, and ethical production. These trailblazing brands are not only reshaping the way fashion is created and consumed but also proving that leadership in the industry can be diverse, innovative, and socially responsible. Here are five standout brands that are redefining fashion and making a lasting impact.

• Arnsdorf – Founded by Australian designer Jade Sarita Arnott, Arnsdorf is a brand that prioritises transparency, ethical production, and sustainability. Based in Melbourne, the label is known for its timeless, minimalist designs and commitment to responsible fashion. Arnsdorf operates with a unique open-pricing model, allowing customers to see exactly how much it costs to produce each garment. By manufacturing locally and using sustainable materials, the brand is setting a new benchmark for ethical fashion in Australia.
• Ngali – Led by Wiradjuri woman Denni Francisco, Ngali is an Indigenous-owned fashion brand that celebrates First Nations art and culture through beautifully crafted garments. The brand collaborates with Indigenous artists to translate their artwork into high-quality textiles, ensuring that each piece tells a meaningful story. Ngali’s approach to slow fashion and ethical production aligns with Indigenous values of sustainability and respect for the land, making it a standout in the Australian fashion landscape.
• Spell – Founded by sisters Elizabeth Abegg and Isabella Pennefather in Byron Bay, Spell is a brand that has gained international recognition for its bohemian-inspired designs and strong commitment to sustainability. The label has taken significant steps to reduce its environmental impact, including using organic fabrics, implementing circular fashion initiatives, and ensuring ethical production practices. Spell’s dedication to transparency and responsible fashion has made it a leader in the movement towards a more sustainable industry.
• Maggie Marilyn – New Zealand designer Maggie Hewitt launched Maggie Marilyn with a vision to create fashion that is both luxurious and sustainable. The brand focuses on ethical production, using organic and regenerative materials while maintaining a commitment to local manufacturing. Maggie Marilyn’s collections are designed to be timeless and durable, encouraging consumers to move away from fast fashion and invest in pieces that last. The brand’s innovative approach to sustainability has earned it a loyal following both in Australia and globally.
• The Social Outfit – More than just a fashion label, The Social Outfit is a social enterprise based in Sydney that provides employment and training opportunities for refugee and migrant women. The brand produces vibrant, ethically made clothing using upcycled fabrics donated by major fashion houses. By empowering women through skills development and economic independence, The Social Outfit is proving that fashion can be a powerful tool for social change.

These five brands exemplify the power of women-led businesses in shaping a more ethical, inclusive, and sustainable fashion industry. By supporting these labels, consumers can contribute to a movement that values people and the planet as much as style and innovation.

Challenges in achieving true representation

The fashion industry has made strides towards inclusivity, but true representation at the highest levels remains elusive. Women, particularly those from diverse backgrounds, continue to face barriers in leadership roles, despite being the driving force behind global fashion trends and consumer spending.

One of the biggest challenges is the persistent gender gap in executive positions. While women dominate the fashion workforce, they are significantly underrepresented in decision-making roles. According to industry reports, less than 25% of top fashion brands are led by female CEOs, highlighting a stark imbalance in leadership.

Another issue is the lack of investment in women-led fashion businesses. Female designers and entrepreneurs often struggle to secure funding compared to their male counterparts, limiting their ability to scale and compete in a highly competitive market. This financial disparity not only affects individual brands but also stifles innovation and diversity in the industry.

Representation also extends beyond leadership to the way fashion is marketed and designed. Many brands still cater to a narrow standard of beauty, failing to reflect the diversity of their consumers. While progress has been made with more inclusive campaigns and sizing options, there is still work to be done to ensure all women feel seen and valued in fashion.

For the industry to truly evolve, systemic change is needed. This includes fostering mentorship programs, increasing funding opportunities for women-led brands, and holding major fashion houses accountable for their diversity commitments. Only then can the fashion world move beyond token gestures and create lasting, meaningful representation at every level.

Five women-led brands making an impact

Despite these challenges, a number of women-led brands are reshaping the industry with innovation, inclusivity, and a commitment to ethical fashion. These brands are not only creating beautiful designs but also challenging the status quo, proving that leadership in fashion should reflect the diversity of its consumers.

One standout is Maggie Marilyn, a New Zealand-born label that has gained international recognition for its commitment to sustainability and ethical production. Founded by Maggie Hewitt, the brand prioritises transparency, using organic fabrics and working closely with local manufacturers to ensure fair wages. With a focus on timeless, high-quality pieces, Maggie Marilyn is redefining luxury fashion with a conscience.

Another trailblazer is Ngali, an Australian brand founded by Wiradjuri woman Denni Francisco. Ngali merges Indigenous art with contemporary fashion, creating pieces that celebrate First Nations culture while promoting ethical production. By collaborating with Indigenous artists, Francisco ensures that each design tells a story, making Ngali a powerful example of fashion as a platform for cultural expression.

In the realm of size inclusivity, Elvie & Leo is making waves. This Melbourne-based brand, founded by women for women, focuses on effortless, size-inclusive fashion that embraces all body types. With a commitment to slow fashion, the brand produces limited runs of high-quality, versatile pieces designed to be worn season after season.

For those who love bold, statement-making fashion, Alémais is a must-know name. Founded by Lesleigh Jermanus, the brand is known for its vibrant prints, intricate embroidery, and commitment to artisanal craftsmanship. Alémais works with global artisans to create unique, ethically made garments that celebrate craftsmanship and heritage.

Finally, Arnsdorf, led by Jade Sarita Arnott, is setting a new standard for transparency in fashion. The Melbourne-based brand provides full disclosure on pricing, materials, and production processes, ensuring customers know exactly where their clothes come from. With a focus on minimalist, tailored designs, Arnsdorf proves that ethical fashion can be both stylish and sophisticated.

These women-led brands are not just creating fashion—they are shaping the future of the industry. By prioritising sustainability, inclusivity, and ethical production, they are proving that fashion can be both beautiful and responsible. As consumers, supporting these brands is a step towards a more diverse and representative fashion landscape.