New Zealand’s local menswear scene has never looked sharper.
One of the biggest grievances we hear from Kiwi guys? That local menswear options in New Zealand are limited. But we’re here to politely disagree. From made-to-measure suits to nostalgic sportswear and laid-back streetwear, the local menswear scene is thriving – and these brands prove just how good it’s gotten. Whether you’re after clean, classic tailoring or something a little more left of centre, these are the labels raising the bar for men’s wardrobes across the country.
Here’s a roundup of our favourites.
Porter James Sports
porterjamessports.com
Born out of a desire to bridge the gap between menswear and streetwear, Porter James Sports delivers slick, everyday essentials with a nostalgic ‘90s edge. Think collegiate fonts, cropped rugby jerseys, and tonal palettes that feel as comfortable courtside as they do at a late-night gig. There’s an artful polish to the relaxed silhouettes – proof that looking effortless actually takes some serious consideration.
Asuwere
asuwere.co
Asuwere isn’t just a brand – it’s a membership-based style service designed to make getting dressed a whole lot easier. Their monthly drops blend timeless design with clever functionality (shoutout to their Oxford shirting and workwear jackets), all made with quality materials and a minimalist Kiwi aesthetic. It’s the answer for guys who want to look good without overthinking it.
Wynn Hamlyn Man
wynnhamlyn.com/man
Known for his namesake womenswear line, Wynn Hamlyn’s expansion into menswear has been nothing short of refined. His pieces nod to tailoring and structure, but with an experimental slant – wide-legged trousers, twisted knits, unexpected fastenings. There’s a softness and sense of subversion in Wynn’s menswear that feels refreshingly modern while still anchored in craftsmanship.
Crane Brothers
crane-brothers.com
If sharp tailoring is your thing, Crane Brothers is the gold standard. Founded by Murray Crane, this is suiting with a distinctly antipodean attitude – refined but never stiff, tailored but totally wearable. With both ready-to-wear and made-to-measure options, the brand’s strength lies in its ability to blend traditional menswear codes with a modern, relaxed sophistication. Bonus: their in-store service is as impeccable as their lapels.
Beach Brains
shop.beach-brains.com
Moody, rebellious, and refreshingly unpolished – Beach Brains brings an edge to the local menswear scene that’s hard to ignore. Born out of a surf-adjacent, outsider ethos, the brand’s aesthetic leans into grunge-y graphics, relaxed silhouettes, and a nostalgic, almost melancholic tone that stands apart from the polished and preppy. From washed-out hoodies and oversized knits to statement jackets and logo tees, Beach Brains is for the guy who dresses to feel something – not to fit in.
Working Style
workingstyle.co.nz
One of the OGs in the local tailoring game, Working Style has been dressing Kiwi men for over 30 years. Their collections offer a perfect blend of heritage tailoring with on-trend updates – think classic suiting, Italian fabrics, sharp shirting, and thoughtful accessories. For weddings, boardrooms or just an upgrade to your everyday office wear, Working Style has your back (and your buttons).
Checks Downtown
checksdowntown.com
Checks is the cool kid of the bunch. A label rooted in streetwear and subculture, its pieces are bold, graphic-heavy, and never shy – oversized silhouettes, playful palettes, and drops that feel fresh and of-the-moment. Whether it’s a camp shirt with just the right print or a collab you didn’t know you needed, Checks keeps Auckland’s street-style scene dialled in.
Longform
longform.co
Longform is the new kid on the block – but don’t mistake it for a trend-hopper. Founded with a deep respect for merino and New Zealand’s fibre heritage, Longform is all about slow fashion, natural materials, and minimalist cuts that feel timeless, not seasonally disposable. Their launch collection of refined basics in undyed wool and organic cotton is the kind of wardrobe foundation every guy could benefit from — wearable, well made, and quietly cool.
Curious to learn more? We recently caught up with Longform founder Des Rusk for a Q&A about why now was the perfect time to launch, how merino became his material of choice, and where he sees the brand going next. Read it here
Commoners
commoners.co.nz
Established in Mount Maunganui, Commoners has quietly built a cult following for its clean, considered approach to menswear. Built on a philosophy of simplicity, longevity, and sustainability, the brand offers elevated basics in natural fibres and neutral tones – tees, crews, trousers, and outerwear that work year-round and won’t date in six months. Designed in New Zealand and made to be worn on repeat, Commoners nails that elusive sweet spot between understated and refined. It’s effortless dressing, done right.
