Gorman (brand)
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Fashion, Apparel |
| Founded | 1999 |
| Founder | Lisa Gorman |
| Headquarters | Melbourne , Australia |
Area served | Australia, Japan |
Key people | Lisa Gorman (founder, former creative director) |
| Products | Women's fashion apparel |
| Parent | Factory X (since 2010) |
Gorman is an Australian label specializing in women's fashion, established by Lisa Gorman in 1999.
History
The brand debuted in 1999 with the ‘Less Than 12 Degrees’ collection, initially available at the now-defunct fat 52 boutique. By 2003, Gorman's products were carried by 55 retailers across Australia and 15 outlets in Japan. The first dedicated Gorman store was launched in 2004 in Prahran, Melbourne. In 2010, Factory X became the owner of the company. By the mid-2010s, Gorman had secured its position as a prominent Australian apparel brand with a devoted following known as “Gormies.”
As of November 2021, Gorman operated more than 50 retail locations throughout Australia.
Brand collections
Each season, Gorman is noted for partnering with both Australian and international artists. Prominent collaborators have included Atelier Bingo, Mirka Mora, Miranda Skoczek, Monika Forsberg, Liz Payne, Dana Kinter, Elke Kramer, Miso, Rhys Lee, Rachel Castle, Ellie Malin, and Alexander Kori Girard. The 2019 Mangkaja line showcased works by Aboriginal artists Ngarralja Tommy May (recipient of the 2020 Telstra Award) and Sonia Kurarra from Fitzroy Crossing in Western Australia.
In 2021, Lisa Gorman stepped down from her role as the brand’s creative director.
Manufacturing
In 2016, Factory X and its Gorman label were criticized after being listed on Oxfam’s annual “Naughty List” due to a lack of supplier disclosure. That same April, Gorman earned an “F” rating in the Baptist World Aid fashion report for declining participation in their survey.
Gorman explained that the decision to withhold information about its manufacturers was intentional to safeguard proprietary methods and maintain competitive advantage. The company highlighted its close partnerships with manufacturers focused on distinctive designs and fabric treatments.
Subsequently, Gorman increased engagement with ethical bodies and enhanced transparency efforts, achieving "B" ratings in later evaluations.
References