The First Nations brands that are revolutionising the Australian fashion landscape
First Nations fashion is enriched by its connection to culture, Country and language.
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.
'Lena' Wide-Leg Pant, White, $245 by Maara Collective can be found here.
Maara Collective'Ella' Woven Tunic, Ochre Yellow, $149.00 by Maara Collective can be found here.
Maara CollectiveNgarru 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.
Off The Shoulder Gathered Linen Crop, $130 by Ngarru Miimi can be found here.
Ngarru MiimiNgayirr Relaxed Shoulder Tie Mini Dress, $160 by Ngarru Miimi can be found here.
Ngarru MiimiNgali 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.
Black Bark Knitted Vest, $125 by Ngali can be found here.
NgaliBabin T Shirt Dress - My Country, $275 by Ngali can be found here.
NgaliKirrikin
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.
Jessie Long Dress, $390 by Kirrikin can be found here.
KirrikinShannon Slip Dress, $620 by Kirrikin can be found here.
KirrikinNorth
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.
Silky Cami, $160 by North can be found here.
NorthWarlu Sun Dress, $280 by North can be found here.
NorthBima 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.
Nobody Denim x Bima Wear Skirt, $189 by Bima can be found here.
BimaBox Dress - Turtini Light Green Navy, $150 by Bima can be found here.
BimaMagpie Goose
Magpie Goose curates collections that tell unique stories from First Nation artists all over the country to highlight its people, culture and stories.
Smock Dress - Macassans Trading With My People, $269 by Magpie Goose can be found here.
Magpie GooseJumpsuit - Stingrays, $279 by Magpie Goose can be found here.
Magpie GooseRed 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.
Aprila Dress - Wattle, $295 by Red Ridge The Label can be found here.
Red Ridge The LabelPunpu Dress - Wattle, $230 by Red Ridge The Label can be found here.
Red Ridge The Label