Solomon Street

Solomon Street’s business model is based on a global micro-lending fund that helps people out of poverty. The store is by Lauren Crago. When a piece is purchased, customers choose who the profit from their purchase goes to. It’s based on the idea that lending is one of the most powerful and sustainable ways to create economic and social good. Borrowers can start or grow a business, go to school, access clean energy and realise their potential.

Solomon Street is a store, but it’s also a headquarters for design and garment construction. It started as an online store and with market stalls. But it was important to Crago to offer customers somewhere to try the clothes on.

There is a collection of vibrant pieces such as soft leggings and crop tops, high-waisted bikinis, and T-shirts. The prints – which start as colour-pencil illustrations by Crago – are food-inspired and summery. Think pink grapefruit, figs, green leaves and apricots.

All the materials are natural fibres, except for the swimwear. It’s made from recycled fishing nets and plastic bottles. Swimwear is constructed at Adelaide ethical clothing manufacturer Jem Designs, and Crago hand makes all linen wear in the studio.

As well as using environmentally conscious materials, Crago considers an entire piece of fabric during the design process. For example, by making headscarves from offcuts to reduce waste.