Sponsored by Melbourne Quarter, the Ngali Miya Melbourne Fashion Week Event left our attendee and Fashion critic Craig Lawson, feeling emotional. The labels founder Ngali brought together the talented works of First Nations artists, models and creatives to the runway hosted in the lobby space at One Melbourne Quarter.
Melbourne My Style’s Craig Lawson says,
“I felt very emotional”
You could feel the love, pride and joy of the First Nations’ heritage overflow from the fashion runway for the sold out Ngali Miya event.
After the Melbourne Fashion Week show, Ngali Founder and Designer Denni Francisco says it was hard to believe it all, actually happened and was a moving experience.
“It was very emotional, it was incredible to see all the collaboration with the artists and creatives take place,” she says.
The fashion collection, known as Miya which translates to ‘together’ in Wiradjuri language, has been inspired by the magic that happens in the collaborative space between First Nations’ creatives and the time spent on Country that brings communities together.
Statement pieces this season include kaftans, flowing soft silk dresses and skirts that are technically scarves by design.
Ngali uses sustainable practices and ethically sourced materials, with fabric prints inspired by First Nations artists.
“It’s important that we make the artwork the hero as each artist has a story to tell,” Denni says.
Prints really shone through on the night, with this collection featuring more solid colours in earthy tones of soft pink, sky blue and sandy brown.
On the runway, models showcased easy to mix pieces that could work for an elegant cocktail party, daytime chic style or look glamorous at a summer pool party.
The collection will be in David Jones from November and is available online now for pre-order through the Ngali website.
In further exciting news, Ngali has now opened their first retail fashion studio at Melbourne Quarter. Ngali’s new studio will become an exciting destination for visitors seeking a retail experience that fosters First Nations’ creativity and encourages learning more about First Nations culture and will soon offer mentorship for young creatives.
“Our new studio is a true celebration of our journey to shine a light on First Nations’ design and creates a pathway for more designers and creatives to follow,” Denni says.
The Ngali studio is located within the Melbourne Quarter precinct at 24 Aurora Lane, Docklands and open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 5pm, or by appointment.
Attended and written by Craig Lawson
