WA fashion labels Kaninda and Jaru Girl on show at Melbourne Fashion Week
Striking designs from two WA First Nations fashion brands were showcased at the sold-out opening of Melbourne Fashion Week in Docklands on Monday night.
Wyndam based Jaru GirlThe Milky Water collection, created in 2018, was modeled after the Ganbu Marra runway.
The brightly colored shirt range is inspired by the family heritage of the brand’s owner, Bianca Long.
“I am proud that a small brand from a remote town at the top end of WA is featured at a major showcase event in Melbourne,” Long said.
“I really never thought this would happen, and I’m honored to be a part of it, especially to be a part of it with my sister, because the collection that was on display was a collaboration between my little sister and me.”
Uzun hand-paints the designs on the shirts, inspired by his grandfather’s Sturt Creek country, fruits and plants.
“We wanted to acknowledge it and our connection as a family to the rodeo and also to Aboriginal livestock handlers and women,” he said.
After a long journey from the Kimberley to Melbourne, Long said being in the big city was “overwhelming”.
“Traffic and everything like that but it’s exciting and I actually quite enjoy it. Melbourne is quite a beautiful city,” he said.
The creator of the Pilbara brand is also enjoying the spotlight in your blood – Lilla Gagliano – named the brand after her daughter, who is now 22 years old.
Gagliano designs boldly printed swimwear and clothing with her daughter, who brings youthful energy and style to the brand.
One of the models was carrying a football and wearing a jersey named after former Western Australian footballer Andy Krakouer.
