Indigenous Fashion Projects has unveiled the 22 designers and brands set to feature in this year’s highly anticipated Country to Couture runway, a highlight of August’s Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF). Indigenous Fashion Projects Announces Designers for 2024 Country to Couture Runway
A Celebration of Creativity
Country to Couture is a vibrant showcase where First Nations textiles, fashion, and art collide, highlighting the rich creativity from across Australia. Renowned for celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander textiles and fashion design, the event serves as a contemporary platform for cultural storytelling and knowledge sharing.
Fostering Growth and Global Connections
Beyond providing global networking opportunities and exposure, Country to Couture builds on the growing textile design movement within remote Indigenous communities. The event has been a staple alongside the annual DAAF since 2016, reflecting the ongoing talent and success of First Nations designers, artists, and creatives.
A Dual-Theme Showcase
Scheduled for August 6, this year’s Country to Couture will be presented over two distinct runways, each with a unique theme.
Show One: Underfire – Hear Our Voice
This theme encourages activism and expression, prompting designers to ‘keep the fire burning’ through First Nations fashion. It emphasizes fashion as a vehicle for healing, political expression, and the fight for cultural survival.
Show Two: Boundless – Always Was, Always Will Be
Celebrating cultural stories, this theme explores the power of traditional materials to take the audience on a journey from streetwear to couture, celebrating the enduring connection to Country.
Spotlight on Talent
Michelle Maynard, Indigenous Fashion Projects Manager, expressed excitement about the talent showcased each year. “Each year we are blown away by the incredible talent and works of both established and emerging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander designers and creatives,” she said.
Anticipation and Excitement
Jessica Mauboy, DAAF Foundation Community Ambassador and Wakaman and KuKu Yalanji woman, shared her eagerness to see this year’s creations. “The runway shows are nothing short of spectacular and are an incredible way to see first-hand how First Nations creatives are using fashion to share their culture and create truly beautiful pieces,” she said.
A Collaborative Effort
Celebrating contemporary fine art and high-end fashion, this year’s runways will feature 22 collections, highlighting unique collaborations between Indigenous communities and renowned Australian labels.
Country to Couture 2024 Participants
Show 1: Underfire – Hear Our Voice
- MumRed by Samala Thakialee Cronin, ‘Fractured Country’
- Debra Beale, ‘Truth be Told’
- Yalanji Artists x Linda Jackson AO, ‘Underfire’
- Yanggurdi by Cassie Leatham, ‘Munganbiik’
- Gapuwiyak x Helen Kaminski, ‘Land to Hand’
- DandalooSu by Su Lousick, ‘Coat of Arms’
- Delvene Cockatoo-Collins, ‘Dilly Bag and Mat Making’
- Sarrita King x Edition
- Blaklabel Dreaming by Kristie Peters, ‘Yarrudhamarra’
- Gammin Threads by Tahnee Edwards
- Iltja Ntjarra
Show 2: Boundless – Always Was, Always Will Be
- Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) Art Centre, ‘Big Colours’
- Sonya Coleman, Amna Qureshi, Melanie Sarantou, ‘Eleraze’
- Magpie Goose x Ewyenper Atwatye
- Bula Bula Arts x Black Cat Couture, ‘Soar’
- Djarli Creative by Corina Jadai, ‘Juri’
- Ikuntji Artists
- Datlarwa Moydra X Akira, ‘Dungalaba’
- Yarrenyty Arltere Artists
- Buluuy Murri, ‘Miyaaymiyaay’ (Seven Sisters)
- Nagula Jarndu, ‘Kimberley Wedding’
- Blak Sand by Salt Water Murris Quandamooka Art Gallery, ‘Yarabinjara Sea Country’
Supporting Organizations
Country to Couture is supported by the Northern Territory Government through the Northern Territory Major Events Company and iconic Australian lifestyle brand, Country Road.
Event Details
The 2024 Country to Couture runway will take place on Tuesday, August 6. Don’t miss this extraordinary event that celebrates the intersection of fashion, culture, and creativity!
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