Darwin, NT – A new force in First Nations fashion has emerged on the national stage, as Kija and Gnoonyandi woman Rowena Morgan captivated audiences with her stunning debut at Country to Couture. Showcasing her label, Nangarri Designs, Morgan’s collection masterfully blended profound cultural narratives with contemporary aesthetics, marking a significant moment in Australian design. Her participation coincided with the event’s momentous 10th anniversary, an occasion that has increasingly become a beacon for Indigenous creative talent and a highlight in the Australian fashion calendar.
From Kimberley Country to the Darwin Runway
Born in Wyndham, Western Australia, and raised in Halls Creek, Rowena Morgan’s artistic journey is deeply rooted in her Kija and Gnoonyandi heritage. Her connection to Country, passed down through generations, particularly from her grandparents who were displaced from their traditional lands, forms the very essence of her work. Morgan’s path to the runway began at an early age, cultivating a distinctive contemporary Aboriginal art style.
Her involvement with various art centers, including a pivotal period at Nagula Jarndu since 2014 where she honed her printmaking skills, laid the foundation for Nangarri Designs. This evolution from painter to textile artist culminated in a major recognition in 2023, when Morgan was awarded the National Indigenous Fashion Award for Textile Design. This prestigious win served as a catalyst, propelling her toward her long-held aspiration of presenting her own collection on a major fashion stage.
“Connection to TAAM (Country)” Takes Centre Stage
Morgan’s debut collection at Country to Couture, aptly titled “Connection to TAAM (Country),” is a powerful testament to her ancestral roots. Central to this collection is the “Vio & Olly” line, a heartfelt homage to her grandmother Violet and mother Olive – the matriarchs who served as her first teachers and instilled in her the core strengths of Indigenous identity. The designs are a vibrant visual tapestry inspired by her grandmother’s traditional lands within the Lansdowne Ranges of the East Kimberley. They reflect the vast landscapes of hills, ranges, and rivers, with a rich palette of earthy ochre tones that evoke the distinct colours of her Country.
The collection showcased wearable garments that seamlessly merge cultural power with modern style, demonstrating how ancient storytelling can resonate with today’s trending fashion narratives. Morgan emphasized a commitment to “slow fashion,” focusing on small-batch production, a conscious choice that underscores the authenticity and considered artistry behind each piece. The runway was graced by Kimberley models, including Morgan’s niece Calli-Rose, adding a deeply personal and community-focused dimension to the presentation.
Country to Couture: A Decade of Indigenous Fashion and Culture
Rowena Morgan’s spectacular debut unfolded within the framework of Country to Couture’s landmark 10th anniversary. Established in 2016 alongside the annual Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF), Country to Couture has blossomed into Australia’s premier platform for First Nations fashion innovation. Organized by the Indigenous Fashion Projects (IFP) of the DAAF Foundation, the event is far more than a fashion show; it’s a dynamic celebration where First Nations textiles, fashion, and art collide. It serves as a contemporary vehicle for cultural storytelling and knowledge sharing, bridging remote, regional, and urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities with the global fashion industry while fiercely protecting cultural integrity.
This year’s event, held at the Darwin Convention Centre, featured two sold-out runway shows, presenting over 20 First Nations collections under the themes of ‘Threads of Country’ and ‘Rising Colours: The Blak Party.’ Supported by the Northern Territory Government and Country Road, Country to Couture continues to be a vital showcase for both emerging and established designers, providing unparalleled opportunities for growth and exposure in the fashion world.
The Future Trajectory of Nangarri Designs
Morgan’s powerful debut is more than just a personal milestone; it represents the surging momentum of Indigenous design in the broader fashion landscape. Her collection, with its strong narrative and distinctive aesthetic, offers a fresh perspective that is quickly gaining traction in fashion news and circles.
Looking ahead, Rowena Morgan remains committed to her fashion journey, setting ambitious goals for product development and continued learning. Her participation at Country to Couture is poised to foster significant growth for Nangarri Designs, reinforcing her vision of creating culturally powerful and modern garments that tell essential stories. The impact of designers like Morgan ensures that First Nations fashion is not just a passing trend, but a vital and enduring force shaping the future of global style and culture.
