In the world of fashion, where trends often blur the lines between originality and imitation, Dylan Best has carved out a space that is distinctly his own. An Australian designer with a global perspective, Best has managed to blend the rigor of traditional craftsmanship with the raw energy of streetwear, creating a brand that is as reflective of his journey as it is of his homeland.
A Journey Across Continents
Dylan Best’s path into the world of fashion was anything but conventional. Initially, he pursued a business degree in Melbourne, a choice that seemed at odds with his creative ambitions. “I always wanted to study fashion,” Best recalls. “So I moved to New York and enrolled at Parsons, where I could finally immerse myself in the creative world I had always dreamed of.”
At Parsons, Best honed his skills, and after graduating, he landed prestigious internships with industry heavyweights like Rag & Bone, Phillip Lim, and Band of Outsiders. These experiences laid a solid foundation for his career, eventually leading him to roles at Ralph Lauren and Club Monaco. “Working with those brands taught me a lot about the business side of fashion—how to balance creativity with the practicalities of production and merchandising,” he reflects.
Returning Home: A New Vision for Australian Fashion
Despite his success in New York, Best always knew he wanted to return to Australia. “Being away from home made me realize that I wanted to create something uniquely Australian,” he explains. This desire to reconnect with his roots was the driving force behind his decision to launch his own label upon returning to Melbourne.
Best’s aesthetic, though heavily influenced by his time in New York, is grounded in the cultural and environmental landscapes of Australia. “I was inspired by the idea of creating something that reflected my heritage,” he says. “My designs are menswear-inspired but are made to be unisex, blending comfort with a modern, streetwear sensibility.”
Building a Brand from the Ground Up
Starting a fashion brand is never easy, and for Best, the challenges were significant. “It took me two years just to get the ball rolling, starting with cut-and-sew sweatshirt garments,” he recalls. “But gradually, I built a network of contacts, found the right factories, and developed a community within the industry here.”
One of the defining aspects of Best’s brand is its commitment to local production. “About 80% of our collection is made in Melbourne, except for knitwear and sneakers, which are produced in Hong Kong through my family’s connections,” he explains. This dedication to local craftsmanship ensures that every piece meets the high standards of quality that are integral to his brand’s identity.
A Physical Presence and Growing Momentum
The early success of his pop-up stores on Gertrude Street and Brunswick Street in Melbourne convinced Best of the value of a physical retail presence. “Having a shop where people could actually feel the garments was crucial, especially for higher-end products like sweatshirts,” he notes.
This hands-on approach has paid off, and the brand has recently begun to expand its reach. “We’re looking at potential wholesale opportunities now, which is a big step for us,” Best shares. “It’s part of our strategy to grow internationally, meeting the demands of a broader market.”
Recognition and the Road Ahead
Best’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Recently, he won the National Design Award at the Melbourne Fashion Festival, presented by David Jones—a significant milestone that has brought new visibility to his brand. “The award has opened up a lot of opportunities, from media coverage to business contacts, particularly in New York and China,” he says. “We’re making the most of this momentum to further grow the business.”
A Commitment to Authenticity
At the core of Dylan Best’s brand is a commitment to authenticity—whether in the meticulous design of his garments or the relationships he builds with his production partners. “It’s a team process,” he says of working closely with local factories to achieve the desired results. “Building those relationships takes time, but the payoff is worth it.”
As he looks to the future, Best remains focused on growing his brand in a way that stays true to his vision. “We’re expanding our team and ramping up production, but always with the goal of maintaining the quality and integrity that define us,” he affirms.
In a world where fashion often chases fleeting trends, Dylan Best is a reminder that true style is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about telling a story. And for Best, that story is one of returning home, embracing his heritage, and creating something uniquely his own.
