This year, Melbourne Grammar athletes took to the sporting stage with a brand-new look.
Behind the scenes, it was a years-long journey to bring it to life. From archival research to design, manufacturing, and now its implementation, every aspect of the new sports uniform has been considered with care.
For Director of Community Relations Kate Barnett, who has seen this project through from its inception, one of the most exciting elements of the new sports uniform is the sun protection it offers.
“Every uniform in the new range incorporates fabrics rated SPF50+,” she says.
“Knowing that students would be competing under the harsh Australian sun, we lent on advice from Cancer Council and leading dermatologists to inform many of our fabric and design choices.”
Where possible, upper garments are offered in a long sleeve variety, and many include a functional collar. Some items, such as the long sleeve knit, are transferrable across sports, giving students the option to layer up while staying cool.
“Being able to adopt so many of their recommendations and go above and beyond the APS requirements for sun protection can be a source of real pride for us,” she says.
Sustainability and sustainable practices have been equally important to the process.
Clever design choices mean that in many cases, items in the new line can be re-worn across multiple sports. For old garments, an extended transition period means that there’s time for students to grow out of their old uniforms and into the new ones. In the meantime, students can continue to wear their old items for training.
“We are really proud of the creative solutions we’ve been able to find to give the old uniforms an extended or second life,” Kate says.
“Where items can’t be repurposed, we’ve turned to recycling and upcycling initiatives.”
The School has embraced opportunities where possible to partner with local suppliers such as Interknit in Ballarat, who are producing the new line of knitwear.
Kate says that from the outset, it was important that the School partnered with suppliers who aligned with our values.
“Through this, we have been able to ethically and sustainably source high-quality garments that we knew would be functional, durable, and practical for growing athletes,” she says.
At every stage, the community has been central to the process; from tapping into the insights of the students, parents, and alumni to the wonderful ongoing work of FOG Shop volunteers.
“We can feel bolstered knowing many ways this uniform has been shaped for, and by, the Melbourne Grammar community, and underpinned by the values we share,” Kate says.