Country Road has launched its first collaboration with leading First Nations fashion label Ngali; a collection of apparel and accessories that celebrates Country, culture and community.
Founded by Wiradjuri designer Denni Francisco, Ngali has become known for its philosophy "together we create", bringing First Nations artists' stories to life through clothing.
Since making history with the first First Nations solo runway at Australian Fashion Week, the brand has earned recognition across Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Marie Claire, Elle and other leading fashion publications. With a growing presence on national and international stages, Ngali represents a future in fashion grounded in culture, creativity, and connection.
For this collaboration, Ngali worked alongside Antikirinya-Matu Yankuntjatjara artist, community leader and educator, Pearl Austin, whose artwork painted at Umoona Community Art Centre, Coober Pedy forms the foundation of the collection.
The idea of a collaboration had been many years in the making. Francisco completed a mentorship with Country Road in 2021 and 2022 after winning the Fashion Design award at the National Indigenous Fashion Awards; an experience which sparked conversations about bringing First Nations fashion to a wider audience.
"This collaboration is the realisation of a vision of possibility and a collective journey," she said.
"At the heart of everything was the question, 'how do we honour the artwork?' The answer was to ensure Pearl's story remained the hero at all times."
Austin's artwork speaks to her Country in Coober Pedy, South Australia, drawing on memories of time spent with family out on the land. It reflects the earthy tones of a landscape that often sees little rain, yet holds deep beauty in its creeks and moments of connection.
"It connects me to my Country and family," she said.
"I want people to understand that it's not just art - it means something deeper. When someone wears a piece from this collection, they carry a story of my community and Country with them."
The collaboration also represents Country Road's ongoing commitment to supporting and amplifying First Nations voices within the fashion industry.
Head of design (accessories) at Country Road, Jessica Poynter, said it has been nothing but a joy to work alongside both creatives.
"It has been a joy to work alongside Denni and Pearl to bring this collection to life," she said.
"We are honoured to play a role in showcasing First Nations storytelling through fashion, and to continue building opportunities for future generations of designers and artists."
Country Road has also partnered with the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation (DAAFF) since 2020, navigating ways to support meaningful pathways for emerging Indigenous talent. Through this partnership Country Road proudly supports Country to Couture, an annual celebration of First Nations art and design talent, and the National Indigenous Fashion Awards (Fashion Designer Category), with the winner going on to undertake a 12-month mentorship with the brand.
From its products to its partnerships and stores, the brand looks to drive positive change. Country Road celebrates the lands and waters that give us life; into which the songlines, stories, songs, ancestors and dreamings of First Nations peoples are woven.
The Ngali X Country Road collection launches today and will be available in select Country Road stores and online.
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