Untouched World: A Pioneer in Ethical Clothing and Sustainable Fashion in New Zealand
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The Origins of Untouched World: Vision, Values and the Birth of a Movement
Inside the Untouched World Clothing Philosophy: Function, Form and Fibre
Where to Find Untouched World Stores and Garments
The Rise of Fashion and Sustainability in Modern New Zealand
What Sets Untouched World Apart?
From Style to Substance: Youth Leadership and Global Impact
Final Thoughts: A New Standard for Ethical Clothing in New Zealand
In a captivating episode of Style for Life, host Stephanie Rumble sits down with Peri Drysdale, the visionary founder of Untouched World. This iconic New Zealand brand has become a global leader in ethical clothing, combining luxurious merino wool and possum fiber with a bold commitment to sustainability. What began as a cottage industry in Canterbury has grown into one of the most respected New Zealand clothing brands, known for its elegant aesthetic, cutting-edge fibre technology, and unwavering values.
This article explores the inspiring journey behind Untouched World, its pioneering approach to eco-friendly clothing, and how it's redefining the fashion of New Zealand on the global stage.
The Origins of Untouched World: Vision, Values and the Birth of a Movement
Before the rise of Untouched World stores and global recognition, there was a woman with a mission. Peri Drysdale founded what was originally known as Snowy Peak Limited from her rural Canterbury home. With a background in medical science and two small children in tow, she set out to transform New Zealand’s primary wool production into something meaningful and sustainable.
“I know that we are making a difference. We're helping people think about what they're buying.” ~ Peri Drysdale
Her motivation stemmed from two concerns: the vulnerability of New Zealand’s export market and a personal drive to add value to local materials. She began by experimenting with hand-knitted garments, eventually building a network of hundreds of outworkers. But as demand grew, so did the need for structure, innovation, and scale.
Soon, a shift occurred. A bold rebranding effort birthed Untouched World, reflecting a new focus on environmental impact, fibre innovation, and timeless design. This pivot marked the beginning of one of the most inspiring sustainable fashion brands to emerge from the Southern Hemisphere.
Inside the Untouched World Clothing Philosophy: Function, Form and Fibre
At the heart of Untouched World knitwear is a commitment to blending natural beauty with cutting-edge textile science. Their fabrics aren't just soft and stylish. They're designed to last, perform, and tread lightly on the planet. Their material innovations are the result of thoughtful partnerships and long-term development processes, all with the goal of enhancing comfort, reducing waste, and preserving the environment.
“Our garments last too long for good commercial success—but that's the point.” ~ Peri Drysdale
Key fabric innovations include:
Merino clothing that is breathable, moisture-wicking, and biodegradable
Possum fiber blended with merino for warmth and reduced pilling
New high-performance textiles like spider silk-inspired brood protein fibres
Sustainable plant-based additions like BCI cotton and linen
These textiles are selected not only for their feel and performance but also for their environmental footprint. Whether it's the natural temperature regulation of merino tops or the ultra-lightweight resilience of brood protein blends, every garment is crafted with both the wearer and the world in mind.
Each piece is a testament to thoughtful design and enduring craftsmanship. It’s not just about looking good. It’s about feeling good, knowing your clothing is made with care and purpose. This blend of ethics and elegance defines what it means to wear eco-friendly clothing today.
Their belief in long-term value is so strong, Untouched World even offers a lifetime mending service. This philosophy challenges the norms of fast fashion and reflects their passion for circular design principles. It also encourages consumers to value their clothes differently—not as disposable items, but as lasting wardrobe staples.
Where to Find Untouched World Stores and Garments
Untouched World is proudly New Zealand-made, with all garments produced locally. While their Untouched World shop locations are primarily in New Zealand, they now ship to international customers and wholesale to select retailers abroad.
To experience the collection:
Visit flagship Untouched World stores in Christchurch or Auckland
Explore their collections online, with shipping available worldwide
Look for partner stockists in key markets like Canada, Australia, and Europe
Beyond retail convenience, these Untouched World stores represent more than just points of sale. Each location is thoughtfully designed to reflect the brand’s ethos, giving visitors a tactile sense of the fabrics, philosophy, and functional beauty behind every item. As they expand their global reach, they continue to prioritise local production and sustainable logistics to reduce their carbon footprint.
Whether you're after merino tops, wool jumpers in NZ, or timeless NZ fashion week pieces, their garments embody the best of New Zealand natural clothing. If you're looking to overhaul your wardrobe to reflect these values, you may also be interested in a personalised style consultation with a professional stylist, helping you shop smarter and dress with lasting impact.
The Rise of Fashion and Sustainability in Modern New Zealand
Throughout the podcast, Stephanie and Peri highlight a recurring theme: fashion and sustainability must go hand in hand. Peri discusses the silent environmental crisis she noticed while travelling internationally for trade, and how this led her to question the fashion industry's growth-at-all-costs mindset.
The Untouched World brand was built as a response. A counterpoint. A way of proving that you can build a beautiful, profitable business without compromising the planet or people.
This kind of forward-thinking design and sourcing has inspired other New Zealand clothing brands to follow suit. The growing appetite for a more transparent and sustainable fashion supply chain within the country is further cementing New Zealand's reputation as a global leader in responsible fashion.
In New Zealand, this movement is growing, and Untouched World is leading the way. Their garments are designed to reduce waste, support local workers, and provide lasting emotional and physical value to the wearer.
What Sets Untouched World Apart?
Locally made in New Zealand with ethical labour practices
Uses premium merino wool and innovative natural fibres
Focuses on garment longevity with timeless design and mending services
Recognised by UNESCO for youth leadership programmes in sustainability
Designs that blend elegance with everyday wearability
Featured at NZ Fashion Week, showcasing seasonal collections
Supports circular economy principles and responsible consumption
These features define Untouched World's competitive edge. They are not simply product highlights but clear indicators of a brand that prioritises long-term vision over short-term profit. Each piece represents a stand against wasteful, fast-fashion culture and a commitment to craftsmanship and social impact.
“First and foremost, they [garments] have to look good.” ~ Peri Drysdale
Many customers of Untouched World clothing describe their purchases as purposeful and lasting. In a marketplace saturated with fleeting trends, that kind of integrity stands out.
From Style to Substance: Youth Leadership and Global Impact
One of the most inspiring parts of the podcast is Peri’s discussion of the Untouched World Foundation, which runs "Leadership for a Sustainable Future" programmes for young adults aged 17 to 28. These programmes aim to unlock leadership potential through experiential learning, focused on environmental and social change.
Acknowledged by UNESCO as one of the top three youth sustainability programmes globally, the foundation is a testament to Untouched World's belief that real change begins with education and empowerment.
Participants are exposed to real-world environmental issues and coached in collaborative problem solving and systems thinking. The focus is on practical learning and social responsibility, with many going on to pursue meaningful work that aligns with the values of sustainability. It's a powerful extension of the brand's mission and a rare example of fashion with a truly global footprint.
Final Thoughts: A New Standard for Ethical Clothing in New Zealand
This conversation between Stephanie Rumble and Peri Drysdale paints a powerful picture of what fashion can be when purpose leads. Untouched World is not just a brand. It’s a movement. It champions ethical clothing in New Zealand, sets global standards for material innovation, and nurtures future leaders through sustainability education.
Their story illustrates how fashion can be beautiful, functional, and responsible all at once. It's not only about what you wear, but how your choices affect the world around you. This is the kind of brand that redefines value, invites deeper consumer engagement, and truly embodies the future of fashion.
For anyone seeking eco-friendly clothing that reflects their values and performs beautifully, Untouched World is more than worth exploring. Visit the official Untouched World website to view the full collection and discover their story.
To take the next step in your personal style journey, Stephanie Rumble also offers personalised styling services, helping you discover your ideal colours, shapes, and wardrobe essentials with confidence and clarity.
Whether you're dressing for comfort, impact, or both, let this story remind you: great style begins with a great story. Untouched World is writing one worth wearing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Untouched World and how did it begin?
Untouched World is a New Zealand clothing brand founded by Peri Drysdale. It began in the early 1980s as a small-scale knitwear business called Snowy Peak. Over time, it evolved into a global leader in sustainable fashion, known for combining natural fibres with ethical production practices.
What makes Untouched World clothing sustainable?
Untouched World focuses on longevity, natural materials, and local manufacturing. They use merino wool, possum fibre, and other low-impact textiles, and they promote mindful consumption by offering services like lifetime mending. Their commitment goes beyond fashion trends to create garments that last.
What is brood protein fibre and how is it used?
Brood protein fibre is a spider silk-inspired innovation that Untouched World incorporates into its summer collection. This fibre mimics the lightweight, durable qualities of spider silk, offering performance and sustainability in one. It represents the brand’s dedication to forward-thinking textile science.
Where can I buy Untouched World clothing?
You can shop Untouched World clothing in their retail stores located in Christchurch and Auckland, or online through their official website. They also distribute through selected international retailers. Their collections are carefully curated to reflect seasonal needs and timeless values.
What is the Untouched World Foundation?
The Untouched World Foundation is a leadership initiative created to empower young adults through sustainability-focused education. Recognised by UNESCO, it runs immersive programmes designed to develop leadership skills and environmental awareness. It’s an extension of the brand’s purpose-driven mission.
What materials does Untouched World use in its clothing?
Untouched World uses a mix of natural and high-performance materials, including merino wool, possum fibre, BCI cotton, linen, and brood protein. These materials are selected for their feel, functionality, and environmental impact, supporting the brand’s commitment to responsible fashion.
How does Untouched World support circular fashion?
The brand encourages circularity through its garment mending service, quality-first design philosophy, and sustainable sourcing. Rather than chasing trends, they focus on making pieces that last. This helps reduce waste and supports more mindful consumer habits.
How can I improve my personal style sustainably?
Start by focusing on pieces that fit your lifestyle and suit your body shape. Consider working with a stylist to audit your wardrobe and identify versatile, long-lasting items. Stephanie Rumble offers professional style consultations.
