First Nations fashion designers are some of the most innovative, connected and culturally invigorated creators in our artisan community.
In observation of NAIDOC (National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee) week, which celebrates our First Nations people’s rich history, achievements, and culture, become acquainted with some of the community’s most textually and aesthetically inspiring fashion labels.
The 2021 theme is Heal Country, which responds to last year’s devastating bush fires and acknowledges the need for more protection of our waters, lands, and sacred sites.
The Celebrating NAIDOC Week website explains how integral country is to First Nations people because “Country is more than a place and inherit to our Identity.”
It is a place that is spoken “about like a person, sustaining our lives in every aspect – spiritually, physically, emotionally, socially, and culturally.”
These values and this year’s theme are intrinsically connected to First Nations‘ fashion brands because they are rooted in sustainable practices, cultural celebration, and social consciousness.
In celebration of First Nations’ influence and achievements in fashion and textiles, here are eight outstanding designers to follow.
We acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation as the traditional custodians of the country this story is published on.
Maara collective
Maara Collective
The Maara Collective works side-by-side with First Nation creatives and artists. In the Yuwaalaraay and Gamilaraay languages, ‘Maara’ means ‘hands’, which references the collaborative nature of the label. The inspiration behind the brand is Country and contemporary fashion.
Maarra
‘Ella’ Woven Tunic, Ochre Yellow, $149.00 by Maara Collective can be found here.
Ngarru Miimi
Ngarru Miimi
Designed and constructed by Lillardia Briggs-Houston, a Wiradjuri Gangulu Yorta Yorta woman, Ngarru Miimi is a slow, ethical fashion label that features handprinted textiles. The values of sustainability and cultural integrity are woven into her work.
Ngarru Miimi
Off The Shoulder Gathered Linen Crop, $130 by Ngarru Miimi can be found here.
Ngarru Miimi
Ngayirr Relaxed Shoulder Tie Mini Dress, $160 by Ngarru Miimi can be found here.
Ngali
Ngali Australia
Ngali means ‘us’ or ‘we’ and references the brands wish to create a bond between Country and people. Ngali designs pieces with artwork from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creators to tell stories through fashion.
Kirrikin
Kirrikin
Kirrikin means ‘Sunday’s best clothes’ in the original language of the Hunter Valley. The brand utilises its First Nation identity to explore its people, traditions and land through its exclusive designs.
North
North
North features art and textiles created by Indigenous artists who are from remote community Art Centres. While it’s not an Aboriginal owned business, the non-for-profit organisation is governed by Indigenous and non-Indigenous board members.
Bima
Bima Wear
This brand dates back to 1969 when Sister Eucharia and Tiwi women created the company, with some still working today. Bima designs, prints, and manufactures their creations, which seek to share their culture and distinct language.
Magpie Goose
Magpie Goose
Magpie Goose curates collections that tell unique stories from First Nation artists all over the country to highlight its people, culture and stories.
Magpie Goose
Smock Dress – Macassans Trading With My People, $269 by Magpie Goose can be found here.
Red Ridge
Red Ridge The Label
The brand works with Central Western Queensland Aboriginal artists to showcase their work on fashion pieces. The designs are connected to the land, rivers and deserts that mark the area.
Red Ridge The Label
Aprila Dress – Wattle, $295 by Red Ridge The Label can be found here.
Red Ridge The Label
Punpu Dress – Wattle, $230 by Red Ridge The Label can be found here.
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