What’s Happening
Rockhampton-based designer and lifelong cowgirl Angeliza Wanstall has launched her debut product under her new label dust & grace — the LadyRider Sculpt Jean, purpose-built denim designed by women who ride, for women who ride.
Each pair is Australian-made, crafted from premium Australian cotton denim milled in Italy, and developed through direct consultation with country women who live in their jeans. Built for the saddle but styled for the social, the jeans reflect the spirit of hardworking women.
This first release is limited to 150 pairs, with each pair numbered and registered to its owner. Feedback from these customers will directly shape future designs, creating collaboration between designer and community.
Photography by Catalina Rose Photography.
Why It Matters
The launch highlights authenticity, sustainability, and craftsmanship in Australian fashion.“Fashion jeans often arrive half worn-out, and too often at the cost of a worker’s health,” said Angeliza. “The LadyRider is about integrity. Made to last, designed with respect for the women who wear them and the people who make them.”
All dust & grace products will be Australian-made wherever possible, or sourced from ethical artisanal makers in Portugal, Indonesia, and Mexico. “We will never manufacture in China,” Angeliza affirms. “Transparency matters. Our customers deserve to know exactly who made their clothes and how.”
Angeliza added, “I grew up with horses as my teachers. They are patient, hard-working and honest by spirit. These jeans are more than a product; they’re part of a legacy. They’re about creating something of real value to give back to the community that has given me so much.”
Circuit barrels in LadyRider Sculpt Jeans. Photography by Catalina Rose Photography.
Local Impact
dust & grace will officially launch in December at the Great Western Hotel in Rockhampton. The open event will feature a mounted fashion show, competitions, giveaways, fitting sessions, and country hospitality provided by the iconic venue.
By the Numbers
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The first production run includes 150 pairs of LadyRider Sculpt Jeans, each numbered and registered.
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Within 12 months, the JeanSisters circular fashion initiative will begin, giving worn jeans a second life through refurbishment and resale.
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100% of profits from JeanSisters will go toward supporting rural families facing mental health challenges and financial hardship.
Zoom In
The JeanSisters initiative will repurpose authentically worn-in LadyRider Jeans from real horsewomen into premium cowgirl fashion pieces for the urban market. Each pair will carry the marks of genuine work and saddle hours.
Once jeans are worn beyond competition use, customers can trade them in for store credit. The jeans will then be professionally refurbished and resold, giving them a new life while maintaining their authenticity.
Funds raised through JeanSisters will support rural families by providing entrepreneurial education and start-up support for small businesses and social enterprises.
Zoom Out
JeanSisters connects the city to the bush through circular fashion and community collaboration. The initiative gives value to garments that tell real stories while creating new opportunities for rural women and families.
What to Look for Next
dust & grace will officially launch in December at the Great Western Hotel. Dates and details will be shared soon, with the event celebrating regional creativity, craftsmanship, and the spirit of country women.
