The Paypal Melbourne Fashion Festival is showcasing the talent and creativity of more than ten First Nations designers, including Liandra, Gali Swimmwear, Miimi & Jiinda, Gamin Threads, and more.

The Festival kicked off on Saturday and runs to March 8 at venues across Naarm/Melbourne and regional Victoria, hosting more than 80 unique events across its schedule.

With the help of several First Nations creatives, this year's program aims to explore the role of fashion in today's culture through the lens of local innovators, artists, small-scale makers, institutions and community organisations across Victoria.

While several First Nations designers are set to feature throughout the main program, the festival's Back in Blak Runway curated by Mob in Fashion exclusively spotlights Indigenous designers.

Delvene Cockatoo-Collins said 2025 is her second year for Melbourne Fashion festival on the Mob in Fashion Runway, "sharing a moment in time in one of my favourite places on the island in my collection 'on an afternoon low tide'".

"The real highlight is seeing my two sons Preston and Stirling along with their cousin Aavaisha walking in the copper hues, Garagun bird print and exposed shells and fibres that exist in this freshwater meets saltwater place on Quandamooka Country," she said.

Powerfully fusing contemporary design with deep, rich traditions of First Nations culture, the Back in Blak Runway takes cues from Australian pop culture rebellion and redefines it through the eyes of First Nations designers and artisans.

The runway is a vibrant, high-energy celebration of fashion and artistry, featuring full collections and one-of-a-kind pieces. It opens new creative pathways and fosters the careers of talented First Nations creators, empowering them to shape the future of Australian fashion.

Gali Swimwear designer David Leslie said: "I'm excited to be showcasing new GALI designs at MFF, created in collaboration with Kamilaroi/Gamilaraay artist Dennis Golding, on the Back in Blak runway."

"It's an honour to work with the Mob in Fashion team and to share the runway with so many talented First Nations designers, celebrating our culture and creativity in fashion."

This year's independent program includes more than 30 free events across Naarm and regional Victoria, plus many more events with ticket prices under $100, making it easier than ever before for fashion lovers to access an array of fashion experiences.

From workshops, open studios, exhibitions, performances, independent runways, screenings, talks and more, the festival has ensured it offers up something for everyone.

The independent program highlights that being part of the fashion community means something different to everyone and provides an opportunity for attendees to connect with, participate in and learn more about fashion in all its forms. This includes exploring and having meaningful conversations about the concepts of belonging and culture, sustainability and circular economy, First Nations design and practices, age and body inclusivity, self-expression and creativity.

PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival's Independent Programme takes place from the 22nd of February – 8th of March, tickets are now on sale.

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