When everything in your closet starts to feel like too much – or even too little – it's nice to strip things back to the basics. Especially in a country like Australia, where the weather can shift from one extreme to the next, we want to feel comfortable in everything we do while ensuring our pieces stand the test of time.
One of the main challenges, particularly for women, is finding basics that are both aesthetic and practical. We need pieces that are breathable, hypoallergenic, biodegradable, durable, versatile, and easy to care for. And that's where the humble cotton basic comes in.
While many brands claim their basics – whether intimates, T-shirts, or other wardrobe essentials – are made from cotton, there's a strong chance that only a small fraction of them are actually composed entirely of the fibre. Below, we've rounded up our RUSSH-approved brands for shopping high-quality cotton basics that are both stylish and functional for women.
1. Cou Cou Intimates
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If there's one brand that has mastered the art of making cotton basics feel feminine, it's London-based and female founded Cou Cou Intimates. Known for their vintage-inspired silhouettes and delicate details, the brand centers many of its collections around soft cotton jersey and pointelle fabrics. They're pieces that are designed to feel comfortable enough for everyday wear while still looking elevated. Their pieces are ethically sourced 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton.
2. Flore Flore
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Amsterdam-based label Flore Flore has built quite the cult following for their perfectly cut cotton essentials. Focusing on premium organic cotton fabrics and timeless silhouettes that feel both effortless and refined. Their pieces vary from tanks to classic tees – pieces designed to become a long-term wardrobe staple.
3. Kow Tow
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For New Zealand brand Kow Tow, sustainability and cotton go hand in hand. Using exclusively Fairtrade-certified organic cotton across its collections, they create pieces that are as conscious as they are wearable. Known for relaxed tailoring, everyday separates and minimalist design – with a hint of colour – Kowtow offers basics that prioritise comfort, quality and longevity.
4. Bassike
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An OG Australian brand that most will know – Bassike has long championed locally made cotton essentials. The brand's signature organic cotton jersey pieces have become wardrobe staples thanks to their soft feel, relaxed fit and understated aesthetic. Designed with longevity in mind, Bassike's approach proves that simple basics can still feel luxurious.
5. Jac + Jack
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While Australian brand Jac + Jack works across a range of natural fibres, its cotton essentials remain some of its most-loved pieces. Their elevated T-shirts, tanks and everyday pieces uses premium cotton fabrics that feel lightweight, breathable and perfectly suited to the Australian climate. As quality is one of their core values, they make sure to source premium fabrics and yarns and work with makers that are experts in their field.
6. Dôen
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Californian-based label Dôen has become synonymous with romantic dressing, but its cotton offerings deserve equal attention. The brand regularly incorporates organic cotton into its collections, creating soft blouses, dresses and basics that feel both nostalgic and wearable. A standout brand for those seeking practicality with a touch of femininity.
7. Matteau
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A more refined approach to resortwear and essentials, Matteau embraces natural fibres throughout its collections. The Australian brand's minimalist aesthetic lends itself perfectly to everyday dressing, with timeless staples designed to be worn season after season.
8. My Mum Made it
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If you prefer your basics with a little more edge, My Mum Made It offers a playful take on cotton essentials. The Australian label is known for creating comfortable, easy-to-wear pieces that feel youthful and contemporary. Many of its everyday staples utilise soft cotton fabrics that prioritise both comfort and versatility.
9. Lé Buns
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Le Buns designs more simplicit intimates and basics. Focuseing on natural fibres, including breathable organic cotton, they create pieces that feel soft against the skin while remaining practical for everyday wear. Comfortable, uncomplicated and effortlessly wearable, it's the modern essential brand for intimates.
10. Assembly Label
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Assembly Label has built its reputation on creating elevated basics that form the foundation of a capsule wardrobe. Cotton sits at the core of many of its collections, from classic tees to relaxed shirting and everyday pieces. Their clean design and quality fabric, offers timeless staples that are made to last.
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Featured products are selected editorially. Our opinions are our own. Occasionally, we may receive a standard affiliate partner fee if you make a purchase using the links we feature.
