Indigenous designers hold independent runway ahead of Australian fashion week

In Sydney, prior to Australian Fashion Week, Indigenous designers organized a separate runway event showcasing partnerships between remote arts centers and fashion labels. Merrepen Arts from the Northern Territory collaborated with Albertini Designs, Black Cat Couture, and Jo Dunne to produce screen-printed sundresses, maxi skirts, and halter tops. Dr. Grace Lillian Lee showcased vibrant 'body sculptures' and costumes created for the Australian Ballet in collaboration with Bangarra Dance Theatre. KingKing Creative presented lightweight suits and dresses featuring prints by Gurindji/Waanyi sisters Tarisse and Sarrita King. Nungala Creative displayed oversized school uniform-inspired suits adorned with illustrations. Tjarlirli and Kaltukatjara Art exhibited hand-painted silk garments, emphasizing the fabric's fluidity with pirriya (breeze). Samala Thakialee Cronin's MumRed line included evening wear crafted from traditional materials. Rapper Barkaa donned a colorful Ulupna coat by Anastasia Keshan and Ashley Maher, designed with That New Label, which means 'strong woman' in Yorta Yorta, honoring Gloria Lexi Matthews. TV presenter Bianca Hunt walked the runway, while the event concluded with poet Luke Currie-Richardson and musician William Barton, earning a standing ovation as the audience chanted, "Always was, always will be Aboriginal land."