CANBERRA GARMS
I’m not sure what you were doing at 19, but I almost felt slightly envious interviewing this friend group who now have a new stomping ground in Braddon. No uni, hanging out with your best mates all day, and having curated vintage at your fingertips? Not a bad play.
A Lonsdale Welcome
Having lived on Canberra’s Lonsdale Street for years, I can confidently say the daytime energy of the street fosters a warm sense of community and connection—even on colder autumn days. I’ve made some of my closest friendships quite literally on the street. And after chatting with Amaru, Tom, and Finn—three of the five friends behind Canberra Garms, Braddon’s newest vintage storefront—it’s clear they’ve been met with the same warm welcome.
When Canberra Garms opened their doors, they were greeted with a bouquet from Moxom and Whitney, a case of beer from Tony at Blackhearts and Sparrows, and custom-designed NFC keychains (that link to their Depop store) from Cygnet and Pen, a neighbouring 3D print shop. A basketball coach popped in to wish them luck and trheir friends from Goodbyes next door swing by on lunch breaks.
These boys haven’t had an issue assimilating into Lonsdale’s culture with their sustainable yet trend-driven vintage clothing store; capturing a facet of the capital’s street culture that the layperson may not pick up on. From the beauty in the functional design of uniforms to the thriving skatewear culture that ripples off Belconnen Skate Park, this crew are curating the subtle yet notable streetwear trends that run through Canberra’s scene.
More Than Just Resale
What’s often overlooked is their deeper connection to the pieces they stock. “We’re not just into fashion,” one of them explained. “It’s the history of the clothes and the way utility influences design that matters.” Sustainability, too, plays a big role. They've saved 2,164,311 litres of water simply by selling vintage—an impact they track and display. For them, it's about responsibility, not just resale.
And while the boys’ energy is easygoing, their journey hasn't always been. Behind the TikToks and curated racks is a group of young men who’ve navigated the trials of running a physical business in their early twenties (or younger). Early on, the group had to navigate business direction, which tested the resilience of their friendship and business. “We didn’t do it well at first,” they admitted. But they’ve made it over hurdles—and what’s left is a tight-knit, creatively aligned team. Tasks are shared, though Gaby still takes the lead on all branding, graphics, and posters. “There are no super set roles,” they told me. “But everyone brings something.”
So how’d they land a storefront in Braddon at 19?
The roots trace back to high school—op-shopping through college (that’s Years 11 and 12 in Canberra-terms) and flipping their finds on Depop. It started with their own wardrobes, but quickly became something more lucrative. Once done with school, the boys moved into wholesale, working with Australian suppliers. As Amaru’s garage overflowed with 90s football jerseys, the group decided to secure a Dairy Road warehouse, which still houses their storage and processing today. Now, Canberra Garms source entirely from overseas; although they did mention the possibility of buying selected pieces off locals who bring in items worthy of their racks.
What about funding? Entirely self-financed through sales. No investors. No handouts. Just spreadsheets and hustle.
Capital Cultural Curation
Before the store even opened, someone spray-painted “Fuck Canberra Garms” on their windows. The boys took it in stride—joked about it online. (And no, it wasn’t a stunt.) The IG Reel they posted about it hit 2.8 million views. All press is good press, right? Still, the graffiti artist probably should’ve left their tag. Their curation skills have earned them the #1 store ranking on Depop Australia. But what they’ve built goes far beyond digital clout—they’ve created a brand with real, street-level recognition.
For launch, the boys teamed up with Lil Mumma’s and Red Bull, but behind the scenes, it’s been all hands on deck—managing stock cycles, navigating delays, and reframing setbacks as opportunities. When their women’s range didn’t arrive in time for opening day? “Disappointing,” they said. But also, “kind of perfect timing. A new drop is also a new reason to come back.” And if you’re looking for a transitional piece before you prematurely reach for your winter puffer (and maybe the Canberra uniform), these boys have an impressive selection of quality leather jackets waiting for new backs.
Rapid Fire
A song to sum up the vibe?
“Anything 2000s Britney Spears.”
If you could style anyone in Canberra Garms?
"A$AP Rocky. Kim Jong-un." (Not recommended. But we appreciate the audacity.)
Dead or alive, who would headline your next event?
“Michael Jackson.”
Local favourites:
Café: Lil Mumma’s
Bar: Civic Pub
Park: Magpie Hill
Despite the hype, these young men remain remarkably level-headed. Beyond Depop and their storefront, a third revenue stream is already in the works. Though the details are under wraps, they’re imagining in-store parties, after-dark events, and more. You’ll want to turn up in your best fit if you’re hoping to snag an invite to the next CG function.
Canberra has a new crew to watch. And they’re just getting started.
