The Story of the Suit - Governor-General Sam Mostyn

Governor-General Sam Mostyn AC wore a custom-made The Social Outfit suit at her Swearing-in Ceremony. The Social Outfit is a fashion label with a difference, supporting refugee women to kick-start their Australian careers. Made for and paid for by Sam Mostyn, the making of the suit has supported the upskilling of our team of refugee women. 

Carla Zampatti was the inaugural Ambassador for The Social Outfit, playing a key role in introducing The Social Outfit to the Australian fashion industry. Today, her daughter Bianca Spender is The Social Outfit Ambassador, and she has kindly donated one of her designs for the suit. As a favourite designer of Governor-General Sam Mostyn AC, it is an obvious choice for Sam to wear a Bianca Spender design, custom-made locally by The Social Outfit. The suit fabric was donated to The Social Outfit by Australian brand BEC + BRIDGE.

The process of producing the suit enabled further skill development for The Social Outfit manufacturing team, whose care and attention to detail is evident in the finishing of the garments. The Social Outfit creates socially responsible clothing collections that showcase the skills, creativity and strengths of refugee and new migrant women. We reduce the environmental impact of our clothing collections by using remnant/deadstock fabrics, saving tonnes of fabric from landfill. Our retail store and local manufacturing studio connects the diverse Australian community, showcasing multicultural Australia, building connection and belonging.

Since 2014, The Social Outfit has provided employment opportunities for more than 100 people from over 20 countries of origin. This work is informed every day by our values: Community – Creativity – Empowerment – Diversity.

Who made the suit?

The suit was made by Xiuyan Han, who is employed as Senior Sewing Technician at The Social Outfit. Han commenced as a student in The Social Outfit's introductory sewing programs. She now assists with running the day-to-day operations of our manufacturing workroom, producing high-quality clothing and other products. Han recently completed a Diploma in Apparel, Fashion & Textiles and showcased her designs at Ultimo TAFE.

 Long term customer of The Social Outift

Governor-General Sam Mostyn AC is a long-term customer of The Social Outfit, frequently calling into our store in King St, Newtown. Suits are not typically part of the range, which makes this particular project even more special.

Pictured above: Governor-General Sam Mostyn AC wearing The Social Outfit Moonlight Palazzo Pants, Marigold Satin Bishop Sleeve Top and Denim Daydream Reversible Vest.

For media and press enquires, please contact Adriana Glass, Glass PR at adriana@glasspr.com.au