The Iconic Unveils Exclusive First Nations Collection
The Iconic Unveils Exclusive First Nations Collection
Australia and New Zealand’s leading fashion and lifestyle platform, THE ICONIC, in partnership with First Nations Fashion + Design (FNFD), a national voice for First Nations creatives, has announced the launch of a new collection from three First Nations brands, that are now available exclusively on THE ICONIC.
The collaboration stems from THE ICONIC x FNFD Incubator Program, which kicked off in April last year, marking a significant milestone in THE ICONIC’s commitment to supporting First Nations fashion.
The designers include Gungganji designer Elverina Johnson, the creative force behind the label Pink Fish, Mt Isa designers Glenda McCulloch, Jaunita Doyle, Dale Bruce and Cheryl Perez of the label Myrrdah and Kuranda-based designer Briana Enoch of label Jarawee.
Throughout the nine-month program, the designers immersed themselves in a series of four chapters, engaging in workshops, tours and experiences guided by cultural peers and curated by industry experts and educators. The chapters were designed to unlock industry opportunities for First Nations designers and covered key aspects such as brand development, merchandising and marketing, providing the designers with the tools to successfully commercialise their brands.
Gayle Burchell, THE ICONIC’s Chief Commercial and Sustainability Officer, said it was a privilege to co-design THE ICONIC x First Nations Fashion Design Incubator program in partnership with FNFD.
“We are so excited to welcome Pink Fish, Myrrdah and Jarawee to THE ICONIC,” she said.
“Over the course of the program we have witnessed incredible talent, drive and dedication from these gifted designers and we’re proud to bring this extraordinary collection to our customers across Australia and New Zealand.
“We extend our gratitude to all participants, mentors and partners who have contributed to the success of this industry-first initiative. It is extremely important to us at THE ICONIC to share our business learnings and expertise on e-commerce, tech and retail with growing businesses. It’s equally important for us to seek out opportunities to learn from First Nations designers to ensure we can play a role in better facilitating the economic empowerment of First Nations business owners.
“Throughout the program we’ve been fortunate to learn more about First Nations cultures and how these three designers have successfully overcome some of the common challenges faced by any new designer looking to scale in the modern retail ecosystem.”
Grace Lillian Lee, FNFD’s Founder and Chair, said the partnership had given the designers a new platform to showcase their incredible work.
“FNFD is thrilled to see the collections launched on THE ICONIC,” she said.
“It is through these initiatives that we can continue to support the self-determination of First Nations Peoples within the industry, and assist them in further developing skills to grow their businesses.”
Each designer has infused their designs with a distinctive creative vision. Briana Enoch, the owner and creative of Jarawee, ignites the imagination with her bold prints and vibrant colours showcased in her designs.
Elverina Johnson of Pink Fish encapsulates a spirit of boldness, vivid colours, and draws inspiration from the reef, rainforest, and her upbringing in Far North Queensland.
Myrrdah, the brainchild of four sisters — Glenda, Jaunita, Dale and Cheryl — features incredible designs inspired by the sunsets, rock faces, clay and landscape that surrounds their Kalkadoon home in Northwest Queensland.
This extraordinary collection of pieces from Myrrdah, Pink Fish and Jarawee are now available to purchase at www.theiconic.com.au.
