Fashion isn't just fabric; it's identity, power, and memory stitched into something you can wear. For Cissy Gore-Birch, OAM and a Jaru and Gija woman with strong ties to Balanggarra, Bunuba, and Nyikina Country, fashion has become a new frontier of cultural storytelling. And through her label LuluJaru, she's weaving generations of her Aboriginal, Japanese and Afghan heritage, Country, and creativity into every piece.
At this year's Kimberley Aboriginal Fashion & Textile Art (KAFTA) runway, Cissy debuted a breathtaking made-to-order collection under LuluJaru; a name gifted by her grandmother Molly over 20 years ago, now reborn through wearable art. Every detail has a story. Hand-embroidered panels, deep earthy tones, and artwork by her son, Scott Gore-Birch, brought to life with care and cultural pride.
"It's important that my clothing reflects my identity, what I stand for, and the importance of the messaging behind it," Ms Gore-Birch said.
"This is fashion with a message."
From a tent pitched on her remote bush block outside of Kununurra on Miriwoong Country, to a sea container studio, LuluJaru was born from the bush. Inspired by sky, land, and kin, Cissy's style is intentionally minimal.
A mother of five and grandmother of one, Ms Gore-Birch juggles her creative journey with her role as a conservationist and community leader. She sits on national boards, advocating for protecting culturally significant plants and animals. That same advocacy finds its way into her garments.
"We're not just making clothes. We're telling stories of land, sea, and sky, and investing in our youth and our future," she said.
Through LuluJaru, 10 per cent of profits are directed to youth-led projects; initiatives in housing, well-being, and young women's camps that foster confidence and self-determination. It's a family-led, values-driven enterprise.
This year marks Ms Gore-Birch's second time showing at KAFTA, but her vision is only growing. She's one of six designers selected for the Indigenous Fashion Projects 18-month mentorship, leading to a showcase at Australian Fashion Week in 2026. Next stops? Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair and a stall at The Rocks in Sydney.
"It's not fast fashion. This is slow, intentional fashion with deep meaning. I want to keep it local, create employment, bring in training, and build opportunities for Kimberley youth," she said.
Cissy's love for Country and creative expression has always been with her; even as a child dressing up in hand-me-downs, making a statement with whatever she had. Now, she's building a pathway for others to do the same; this time with her name on the label.
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