Recognised as a formidable force in the First Nations fashion community, the talented Lindyn Rowland has embraced a new challenge this year as the joint head fashion stylist for Australian Fashion Week’s Indigenous Fashion Projects Runway, presented by David Jones. Lindyn Rowland: Championing Blak Excellence at Australian Fashion Week
Sharing responsibilities with fellow head stylist Karinda Mutabazi, Rowland, a proud Wiradjuri and Waiben Island man, is ecstatic about the opportunity to collaborate with another talented First Nations creative.
Reflecting on his role, Rowland admitted that the job entailed more than he initially expected, but it has been an incredibly rewarding learning experience.
“It’s actually way more than I initially expected, let’s just say…bringing the designer’s vision to life, and a whole lot more: castings, fittings, creative direction, late nights, no sleep, and lots of coffee,” Rowland shared.
Rowland, like most head stylists at Australian Fashion Week, aims to ensure his creative vision is accurately portrayed through the meticulous assembly and styling of garments with appropriate accessories and additions.
“My goal is to not only show that Blak Excellence is powerful, I also want to create a safe space for all people of colour, especially our mob in this space, as we weren’t welcomed into these creative spaces for many years,” Rowland told Indigenous Fashion Projects. “I also want to show the beauty of Blak/Black people, and our connection. A Lindyn Rowland show is all about prioritising culture, and showing Blak Excellence.”
Lindyn Rowland working behind the scenes on the David Jones X IFP runway. (Image: Indigenous Fashion Projects)
Rowland praised his working relationship with Karinda Mutabazi, describing it as a fun and highly collaborative journey.
“Karinda has been my friend for a couple of years now, so watching her work from afar during those years I knew what I could expect working with her,” he said. “She is seriously the hardest working person I have ever met, and everything she does is with purpose (which I am a strong believer in too) – I honestly couldn’t do this without her.”
Mutabazi, a freelance wardrobe and fashion stylist, brings a unique creative curiosity for people and their stories to her work. She has collaborated with notable figures such as Thelma Plum, Zan Rowe, and Rhys Nicholson, continually pushing boundaries and redefining visual storytelling with thoughtfulness, diversity, and creative authenticity.
Karinda Mutabazi working behind the scenes on the David Jones X IFP runway. (Image: Indigenous Fashion Projects)
Recently, Rowland announced the expansion of his First Nations-operated and owned sunglasses brand, Rowland Vision. The opportunity with David Jones and Australian Fashion Week marks a new era for Rowland, one that both consumers and the community are eager to see him pursue further.
Beyond fashion week, Rowland has ambitious plans, including an international relocation to Italy.
“I am actually moving to Rome (yes, Italy) five days after the show, so let’s just wait and see what happens I guess,” Rowland told Style Up.
Lindyn Rowland. (Image: Rowland Vision)
While Rowland prepares for a significant move abroad, his recent work at Australian Fashion Week has solidified his place in the media spotlight. With his creative vision, vibrant personality, and passion for fashion, guests are sure to be impressed by what Rowland and Mutabazi present at the IFP X David Jones runway on Thursday evening.
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