First Nations designers were centre stage on Melbourne Fashion Week's opening night earlier this month.
Showcasing their work on the Week's all-Indigenous ganbu marra runway were several established and emerging brands and designers including Banbu, Kaninda, Yanggurdi, King King Creative, Yapa Mali, Gamin Threads, Goompi's Girl, and Laundry Gallery.
The runway also profiled creations from leading Indigenous Art Centres, including work from the Yarrenyty Arltere Artists and Tjarlirli & Kaltukatjara Art.
Multi-talented First Nations creative Lindyn Rowland took on the role of creative director and runway stylist, with Karinda Mutabazi as consultant and mentor.
Known for his down-to-earth nature, creative drive and exquisite styling choices, Rowland was the perfect fit when it came to who would lead the creative direction of the popular runway.
"I have walked in the ganbu marra runway every year since, and now I'm styling the show. I truly manifested this," Rowland told Style Up.
"I believe as a stylist you're booked to bring your personal flavour to the show - and of course I have no plans leaving my 'Concrete Cowboy' era, so that is exactly what this year's show is."
From cowboy-esque jumpsuits, to floor grazing sequinned maxi dresses, in 2025 the ganbu marra runway showcased a slice of everything.
While all designers demonstrated their unique style, it was clear they shared a passion for creating garments that fused elements of Country into their designs.
"I like to think of Banbu as the "out-there cousin" among First Nations designers - it reflects a bit of how I feel in my own family: bold, playful, and a little unexpected," said Banbu designer Brooke McGlone.
"Each piece has movement and personality, letting people express themselves while staying comfortable and effortless. It's contemporary style with meaning, made to feel authentic and individual.
"There's a lot of love that goes into every stage of the process, from sketching to sewing, to make sure everything feels cohesive and true to Banbu."
Aside from ganbu marra, First Nations designers also participated in several runway shows during Melbourne Fashion Week's program.
Clair Helen and Ngali's designers were displayed on the Opulent Tastes runway while the Fashion X Music runway (presented by Collarts) featured designers Grace Lillian Lee and Sarrita King.
"It is always exciting to be in Melbourne during MFW and showing as part of the program makes it even more exciting and special. I love the atmosphere and the build as we get the week underway," Ngali designer Denni Francisco told Style Up.
Taking place from October 20th to 26th under this year's theme, 'Come As You Are', in 2025 Melbourne Fashion Week invited guests from far and wide to be part of the citywide celebration of self-expression.
This year the program featured six premium runways at standout locations across the city.
Showcasing a mix of emerging, independent and established designers, Melbourne Fashion Week continued its focus on sustainability and inclusivity whilst celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island cultures.
In 2025, Melbourne Fashion Week saw First Nations designers receive the recognition they richly deserve.
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