Étienne’s approach to denim craftsmanship is rooted in historical accuracy, creating garments that embody the spirit of 1890s to 1950s workwear.

Central to Étienne’s craftsmanship is the use of vintage Singer and Union Special sewing machines, each carefully restored and maintained by Aidan himself. These machines, many dating back nearly a century, produce a stitch quality that modern equipment cannot replicate. Their mechanical precision, built for durability in an era before mass production, ensures historically accurate seams and construction methods. Keeping these machines in working order requires constant sourcing of rare parts, skilled restoration, and a deep understanding of vintage mechanics—making each Étienne garment not only a tribute to history but also a product of dedication and meticulous craft.

An image of denim jeans being crafted in our Atelier in Sydney on one of our Singer 31K20 machines.

Click below to learn more about the machines we use to craft our Étienne garments.

Machines in our Atelier

Étienne acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of this land, and pay our respects to the Elders both past and present.