Celebrating First Nations creativity at Country to Couture and the National Indigenous Fashion Awards

The annual Country to Couture showcase and the National Indigenous Fashion Awards (NIFA) have become key platforms for celebrating the creativity and innovation of First Nations designers. These events highlight the depth of talent within Indigenous fashion, bringing together designers, artists, and models to share their stories through textiles, prints, and contemporary designs.

Country to Couture, held in Darwin, is a vibrant runway event that merges traditional cultural storytelling with modern fashion. It provides a space for Indigenous designers to collaborate with textile artists and showcase collections that reflect their heritage, Country, and personal experiences. The event has grown significantly in recent years, with designers from remote communities and urban centres presenting pieces that blend traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics.

The National Indigenous Fashion Awards, also hosted in Darwin, recognise excellence across multiple categories, including textile design, fashion design, and community collaboration. These awards not only celebrate outstanding craftsmanship but also highlight the importance of ethical and sustainable practices within the industry. Many designers use locally sourced materials and draw inspiration from ancestral knowledge, ensuring that their work remains deeply connected to culture.

“Indigenous fashion is more than just clothing; it’s an expression of identity, storytelling, and resilience,” says a participating designer. “These events allow us to share our culture with the world while supporting the next generation of First Nations creatives.”

Both Country to Couture and NIFA play a crucial role in elevating Indigenous voices in the fashion industry. By providing national and international exposure, these platforms help First Nations designers gain recognition, secure collaborations, and expand their brands beyond Australia. The growing interest in Indigenous fashion demonstrates the industry’s increasing appreciation for diverse perspectives and the unique artistry of First Nations creatives.

Elaine George and the evolution of Indigenous representation in fashion

Elaine George’s trailblazing journey in the fashion industry marked a turning point for Indigenous representation. As the first Aboriginal model to grace the cover of Vogue Australia in 1993, she shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations of First Nations talent. Her presence on such a prestigious platform was groundbreaking at the time, challenging industry norms and bringing Indigenous beauty and identity into the mainstream fashion conversation.

Reflecting on her career, George acknowledges the progress made since her debut but also recognises the challenges that remain. In the early years, opportunities for Indigenous models were scarce, and representation was often tokenistic. Today, however, the landscape is shifting, with more First Nations models, designers, and creatives taking centre stage in the fashion world. Events like Country to Couture and the National Indigenous Fashion Awards have been instrumental in fostering this change, providing platforms that celebrate Indigenous identity on their own terms rather than through a Western lens.

George’s influence extends beyond the runway. She has become a mentor and advocate, encouraging young Indigenous talent to embrace their heritage and pursue careers in fashion. Her legacy is evident in the increasing number of First Nations models walking major runways, appearing in international campaigns, and fronting magazine covers. This visibility is crucial in challenging outdated beauty standards and ensuring that Indigenous people see themselves represented in the industry.

“When I started, there were very few opportunities for Indigenous models,” says George. “Now, we’re seeing our young people take ownership of their stories and showcase our culture with pride. It’s inspiring to witness this shift.”

The rise of Indigenous-led fashion initiatives has also contributed to a more inclusive industry. Agencies and designers are prioritising cultural authenticity, ensuring that Indigenous talent is not only represented but also respected. This shift is evident in the collaborations between major fashion houses and First Nations creatives, as well as the increasing demand for Indigenous-designed garments that honour traditional craftsmanship.

While there is still work to be done, the evolution of Indigenous representation in fashion is undeniable. Thanks to pioneers like Elaine George, the industry is moving towards a future where First Nations models and designers are not just included but celebrated for their unique contributions. The continued success of events like Country to Couture and NIFA reinforces the importance of maintaining this momentum, ensuring that Indigenous voices remain at the forefront of Australian fashion.

The growing impact of First Nations designers on the global stage

First Nations designers are making an undeniable impact on the global fashion industry, bringing Indigenous Australian culture to international audiences through innovative and culturally rich designs. As the demand for ethical, sustainable, and meaningful fashion grows, Indigenous designers are finding new opportunities to showcase their work beyond Australia.

One of the key factors driving this global recognition is the unique storytelling embedded in Indigenous fashion. Many First Nations designers incorporate traditional symbols, ancestral knowledge, and deep connections to Country into their work, creating garments that carry cultural significance. This authenticity resonates with international audiences who are increasingly seeking fashion with purpose and heritage.

Major fashion weeks and international showcases have begun to feature Indigenous Australian designers, providing them with a platform to reach wider markets. Designers such as Grace Lillian Lee, Lyn-Al Young, and Julie Shaw of MAARA Collective have gained attention for their ability to blend traditional techniques with contemporary fashion, demonstrating the versatility and innovation of First Nations design.

“There is a growing appreciation for Indigenous fashion on a global scale,” says a First Nations designer. “People want to wear pieces that have meaning, that tell a story, and that support Indigenous communities. Our designs are not just garments; they are expressions of culture and identity.”

Collaborations with international brands and institutions have also helped propel Indigenous fashion onto the world stage. Partnerships between First Nations designers and major fashion houses, museums, and art galleries have facilitated cultural exchange while ensuring that Indigenous creatives maintain ownership of their work. These collaborations are not only elevating Indigenous fashion but also fostering deeper understanding and respect for First Nations culture worldwide.

Beyond fashion, Indigenous designers are influencing the broader industry by advocating for ethical production practices and sustainability. Many First Nations brands prioritise slow fashion, using natural fibres, hand-dyed fabrics, and traditional weaving techniques to create garments that honour the environment. This aligns with the global movement towards more responsible fashion consumption, positioning Indigenous designers as leaders in sustainable fashion.

As the international fashion industry continues to embrace diversity and cultural heritage, First Nations designers are proving that Indigenous Australian fashion is not just a niche market but a powerful and influential force. With growing global recognition, these designers are not only sharing their culture with the world but also creating new pathways for future generations of Indigenous creatives to thrive on an international scale.

Celebrating First Nations fashion at Country to Couture and the National Indigenous Fashion Awards

Australia’s First Nations fashion was in the spotlight at this year’s Country to Couture showcase and the National Indigenous Fashion Awards (NIFA), two of the most anticipated events in the Indigenous fashion calendar. These platforms continue to elevate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander designers, artists, and creatives, celebrating their innovation, craftsmanship, and deep cultural narratives.

Country to Couture, held in Darwin, brought together a dynamic mix of established and emerging Indigenous designers, blending traditional artistry with contemporary fashion. The runway was a bold display of colour, texture, and storytelling, with collections reflecting ancestral knowledge, sustainability, and modern design aesthetics. From hand-dyed silks to digitally printed textiles, each piece carried a distinct connection to Country and culture.

The National Indigenous Fashion Awards recognised excellence across multiple categories, honouring designers who are pushing the boundaries of Indigenous fashion. The awards celebrated everything from textile innovation to wearable art, highlighting the diversity and depth of First Nations creativity. Winners and finalists represented a broad spectrum of talent, from community-led collaborations to solo designers making waves on the global stage.

“These events are not just about fashion; they are about cultural storytelling, economic empowerment, and self-determination for Indigenous designers,”

With a growing presence in both national and international markets, First Nations fashion is no longer on the fringes—it is front and centre, shaping the future of Australian design.

Elaine George on the evolution of Indigenous fashion

Elaine George, Australia’s first Aboriginal model to grace the cover of Vogue Australia in 1993, has witnessed the transformation of Indigenous fashion firsthand. As a trailblazer in the industry, she reflects on the evolution of First Nations design, from being a niche element to becoming a powerful movement within the mainstream fashion landscape.

“When I started, there were very few opportunities for Indigenous models, designers, or creatives in fashion,” George recalls. “Now, we’re seeing Indigenous fashion celebrated on national runways, in major campaigns, and even on international platforms.”

This shift has been driven by a new generation of designers who are reclaiming their cultural identities through fashion. Labels such as Ngali, Maara Collective, and Gali Swimwear are blending traditional artistry with contemporary silhouettes, proving that Indigenous fashion is as commercially viable as it is culturally significant.

George highlights the importance of these developments beyond aesthetics. “It’s about representation, economic independence, and ensuring that Indigenous people have control over their own narratives,” she says. “Fashion has become a medium for storytelling, activism, and empowerment.”

With Indigenous models, stylists, and creatives gaining greater visibility, the industry is beginning to acknowledge the depth and richness of First Nations perspectives. The success of events like Country to Couture and the National Indigenous Fashion Awards demonstrates that Indigenous fashion is not a passing trend—it’s a movement that continues to shape the future of Australian style.