Ngali AFW 2025: Masterclass in Cultural Storytelling and Fashion

Ngali’s showcase at Australian Fashion Week 2025 was a masterclass in cultural storytelling and sustainable fashion. The Indigenous-owned label, led by Wiradjuri designer Denni Francisco, unveiled its latest collection, The Yawa: Journey, a visual narrative celebrating First Nations culture through artful design and ethical craftsmanship.

The collection lived up to its name, taking us on a journey where each garment featured intricate prints inspired by the Australian landscape. The colour palette echoed earthy tones - ochres, sky blues and soft rusts - inviting the audience into a shared experience of Country and culture .

Ngali’s commitment to sustainability was evident in its focus on timeless, trend-resistant silhouettes. The collection’s flowing fabrics and elegant cuts balanced modernity with tradition, reinforcing the brand’s mission to bridge culture and contemporary fashion .

This year’s show marked Ngali’s continued presence on the AFW schedule, following its historic debut as the first Indigenous designer to present a standalone runway in 2023. Ngali’s 2025 presentation not only reaffirmed its place in the Australian fashion landscape but also highlighted the evolving role of fashion as a platform for cultural dialogue and inclusion.

As Australian Fashion Week embraces a new era under the stewardship of the Australian Fashion Council, Ngali’s show stood out as a poignant reminder of fashion’s power to tell stories, foster connection and honour heritage.

Photographed by Paul Dear

Written by Sophie Burley