Discover 12 Unique Aotearoa-Made T-Shirts for Every Wardrobe

The T-shirt has evolved from its humble beginnings as an undergarment to a staple of contemporary fashion. This evolution has seen it become a canvas for personal expression and creativity. In celebration of this versatile garment, we present a curated selection of 12 Aotearoa-made or designed T-shirts that cater to a variety of styles and preferences.

The History of the T-Shirt

Tracing the origins of the T-shirt is a complex endeavor, as clothing tends to develop organically. Early versions can be linked to the ‘union suit,’ a one-piece undergarment worn by workers in the late 1800s. As temperatures rose, these suits were often cut in half to create the first T-shirts. By the early 1900s, T-shirts began to gain popularity as standalone garments, particularly among bachelors who preferred the ease of no buttons. Their acceptance skyrocketed in the 1950s when Hollywood icons like Marlon Brando and James Dean donned them in films, solidifying their status in popular culture.

Today, T-shirts come in countless varieties, from graphic tees to oversized styles, making them a key component of most wardrobes. Here, we explore some standout options from Aotearoa that showcase local talent and creativity.

A Selection of Aotearoa T-Shirts

For those in search of something special, consider these unique offerings:

Buddy Mini Tee – $89
This well-cut, breathable hemp blend tee combines durability with comfort, making it a personal favorite for many.

NOM*d T-Shirt – $180
Known for their high-quality graphic designs, NOM*d offers a range of archival T-shirts that can be made to order, ensuring a personal touch.

Jimmy D T-Shirt – $130
This re-release features a striking design by James Dobson, showcasing bold gender expression with a unique filter effect.

Beach Brains T-Shirt – $129
Featuring a playful dolphin graphic, this tee is perfect for beach lovers.

Sleeping Profit Baby Tee – $55 (on sale)
A nostalgic nod to the 90s and early 2000s, this tee is a must-have for fans of that era.

Longform Merino T-Shirt – $179
Utilizing breathable merino wool, this T-shirt is surprisingly comfortable for summer wear, defying expectations.

Zambesi T-Shirt – $260
This design features a raw bottom hem that pays homage to the traditional union suit cut.

Jess Grindell T-Shirt – $110 AUD
Although made in Australia, designer Jess Grindell hails from Aotearoa, contributing to the region’s rich fashion history.

Atirak Noskcaj X Moana Fresh T-Shirt – $65
This collaboration highlights the T-shirt as a canvas for artistic expression.

Kowtow Oversized Boxy T-Shirt – $76 (on sale)
A bestseller, Kowtow’s oversized tees are versatile and easy to style, making them a wardrobe essential.

Twenty-Seven Names Top – $260
This tee offers a cheeky nod to self-confidence, proclaiming, “Everyone else says I’m a stone-cold legend.”

Sallie Culy x Bad News Books T-Shirt – $60
Featuring vibrant art by Wellington’s Sallie Culy, this collaboration supports independent publishing and showcases local talent.

This diverse collection of T-shirts not only reflects the creativity of Aotearoa but also offers options for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or everyday comfort, these locally made designs ensure that your wardrobe stands out.