The National Indigenous Fashion Awards recognise excellence in First Nations design. This year's winners were selected from 31 nominees, and awarded in six categories. It's been a truly incredible year in Blak fashion, and the judges' selections are a reflection of the stellar talent rightfully garnering attention.
The winners were announced at the official NIFA ceremony on Larrakia Country, broadcast live on NITV's Facebook Live with Warlpiri woman Rachel Hocking presenting.
Take a look!
Cultural Adornment and Wearable Art — Paul McCann
Felicia Foxx struts Paul's stuff during the First Nations Fashion Week. Source: Getty Images AsiaPac
Cultural adornment and wearable art go deeper than just the decorative, it is a visual vocabulary, enriched with cultural expression.
Presented by the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation, this Award shines a spotlight on items that are created and worn as expressive pieces of fine art to celebrate diversity and culture.
“I created a gown that showed Australia and the world our sovereignty, strength and resilience in the most beautiful way possible," said .
Fashion Design — Denni Francisco, Ngali
A model wears a work by Denni Francisco for Ngali. Source: Getty Images
created by Denni Francisco, a Wiradjuri woman. The label is world-class and takes Indigenous fashion to an international level. Ngali clearly communicates cultural expression and commercial capabilities.
This award is proudly , which will see Ngali benefit from a 12-month mentorship with the iconic Australian fashion and lifestyle brand.
Textile Design — Eunice Napanangka Jack, Ikuntji Artists
Eunice Napanangka Source: Sarah Mackie
Eunice Napanangka Source: Supplied
Community Collaboration — Anindilyakwa Arts, with Dr Aly de Groot and Anna Reynolds
Anindilayka Source: Anna Reynolds
in particular Maicie Lalara and Annabell Amagula, have collaborated with artists and designers Dr Aly de Groot and Anna Reynolds to present their innovative designs at the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair and Country to Couture since 2017.
In 2020, they worked with Shonae Hobson and Bendigo Art Gallery to participate in a curated fashion exhibition, which moved to the National Museum Australia. A number of their unique pieces have been nationally acquired.
Environmental and Social Contribution — Mylene Holroyd, feat. Simone Arnol designs
Mylene Holroyd Source: Cristina Bevilacqua
are a nod to ‘ghost net sculpture,’ which started a decade ago, with Pormpuraaw Art one of the pioneers of the genre. These sculptures focus on utilising recycled materials and used wire and cable found at the local tip and abandoned fish nets washed up on beaches. Simone Arnol's designs
Special Recognition Award — Bima Wear
Presented by the Northern Territory Government, this award is for a group, organisation, or individual that has shown exceptional contribution to the development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander textiles and fashion.
For over half a century, design and manufacturing powerhouse has triumphed, struggled and survived.
Bima Wear Source: George F Photography
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