As the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF), Country to Couture, and the National Indigenous Fashion Awards (NIFA) take center stage in Darwin this week, the National Indigenous Times had the pleasure of catching up with emerging First Nations model, Jadene Croft. Jadene Croft: Shining Bright in the Indigenous Fashion Scene
Raised in the Kimberley’s Fitzroy Crossing, Croft has since made Darwin her home. Her journey into the world of modelling began a few years ago when she applied to participate in the Country to Couture show, sparking a realization of her potential in the fashion industry.
Igniting a Passion for Modelling
“I started modelling when I moved to Darwin a few years ago. I applied to be a model in the Country to Couture show, and that ignited a spark and made me realize how much potential I have as a model,” Croft shared.
For Croft, the Country to Couture catwalk is an annual highlight. Her talent and dedication have also taken her to prestigious events such as the Australian Fashion Week in 2022, where she was part of the First Nations Fashion Design show. “That show was so special as all the models were Indigenous, as well as the backstage crew. A show like that had never been done before at Australian Fashion Week, and I’m so proud I was able to be a part of that,” she said.
Milestone Moments
One of Croft’s most significant achievements came a few months ago when she was chosen to be the face of Australian comedian Celeste Barber’s new makeup line, Booie Beauty. “I got flown to Sydney to shoot the campaign, and I’m super proud of it as it’s a truly diverse campaign with models of different ethnicities, ages, and body types. Also, the products are amazing,” Croft noted.
The annual Country to Couture show remains a special event for Croft, providing a safe space and a fantastic opportunity to connect with other First Nations models, designers, and photographers. “A yearly highlight for me is modelling for Indigenous Fashion Projects in the Country to Couture show. It’s a very safe space and a great opportunity to connect with other First Nations models, designers, and photographers.”
A Full Circle Moment
Reflecting on her journey, Croft shared how her move to Darwin marked a turning point in her career. “The opportunity to participate in the DAAF fashion shows happened when I moved to Darwin a few years ago. I saw the model call out on social media and applied to boost my confidence. Little did I know it would lead to me being a professional model,” she said.
This year, Croft is looking forward to participating in both the Country to Couture show and the National Indigenous Fashion Awards. “This year I will be modelling in the Country to Couture show. I’ll be walking in both shows, and it’s always a fun experience. I will also be walking at the National Indigenous Fashion Awards in Darwin, which is one of my favorite events to attend.”
She also enjoys attending the Darwin Art Fair, where she loves to explore and indulge in beautiful First Nations jewelry and artwork.
Championing Indigenous Fashion
Discussing the growth and development of the First Nations fashion community, Croft emphasized Darwin’s pivotal role. “I truly feel like Darwin is the capital of the Indigenous fashion industry. DAAF is based here, as is the Country to Couture show, which has grown to be one of the biggest Indigenous fashion shows in the country,” she said.
Croft highlighted the importance of Indigenous-run initiatives like First Nations Fashion Design, Blaklist Modelling Agency, and Indigenous Fashion Projects in nurturing talent and providing pathways to mainstream fashion success. “Through these opportunities, we are getting more Indigenous people in the fashion space when once upon a time there were none of us there. This is a reminder that you don’t have to be based down south to be successful in the fashion industry. You can be living in Darwin or even in a remote community out bush and still have the opportunity to showcase your talent as a model or designer.”
A Bright Future Ahead
With new offers and opportunities coming her way daily, Croft is set for a busy 2024. “I kicked off 2024 by writing down my goals and creating a vision board of all the things I wanted to achieve in my modelling career. I feel like manifestation is so important, and it really does help me to achieve my goals,” she shared.
Jadene Croft continues to be a shining example of the talent and potential within the Indigenous fashion community, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps and pursue their dreams in the fashion industry.
The National Indigenous Cultural Centre (NICC) is an Indigenous home.
We provide Indigenous products, music, art and news.
If you want Indigenous gifts and merchandise, bush tucker food at your next event or Indigenous entertainment at your next party, expo or conference, feel free to contact us!
Visit our page: https://nicc.org.au/
Tony Clemenger.
Chief Executive Officer.
Tel: 0419431649.
Level 1 397 Chapel Street South Yarra 3141.
Source: https://nit.com.au/08-08-2024/12931/emerging-gurindji-and-marrunungu-model-jadene-croft
