Brisbane Fashion Festival 2024 held earlier this year played host to an impressive lineup of emerging designers and artists from Queensland, offering a glimpse into the fashion space and creativity of the region.
These rising talents captivated audiences with their innovative designs, cultural narratives and fresh perspectives, making it clear they are ones to watch in 2025.
Style Up spoke to Kooma and Ugarapul designer, Brooke McGlone, the visionary behind the breakout brand turning heads with its bold debut.
Effortlessly merging culture with fresh contemporary designs and infusing them with a Y2K inspiration, McGlone shared the story behind her brand's name; explaining that banbu means 'born' in Guwamu, a word that holds deep significance for her.
"This word was important to me because it not only marks the start of a new chapter in my life but also incorporates a vital part of my culture. I feel strongly about keeping language alive," she said.
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Having showcased her talent at the Hancock Prospecting Next Gen Show, McGlone reflected on her younger years, where her love for fashion first began.
"When I reached high school, my Auntie gave me a second-hand sewing machine and overlocker, which I used to (very poorly) alter op shop pieces," she said.
"This further sparked my interest for clothes and fashion, leading me to experiment more with my personal style and it became a great creative outlet for me."
Sharing her inspiration behind the inception of banbu, McGlone told Style Up witnessing the success and growth of First Nations creatives in the fashion industry ignited a spark that gave her the confidence to pursue her dreams.
"I started my brand a few years ago after being involved in some First Nations focused Fashion initiatives, from there I saw First Nations creatives thrive and grow in this space which inspired me to start sketching, designing and gave me the confidence to start banbu," she said.
Describing banbu's Brisbane Fashion Festival 2024 (BFF24) collection as "colourful, playful and extra," McGlone is positioning herself as an emerging designer to watch in the Australian fashion space.
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In collaboration with the esteemed luxury brand Mannzilo, known for its tailored suits, Kalkadoon artist Chern'ee Sutton transformed her painting, 'Matjumpa Ritjinguthinha,' into a striking design featured on a custom-made coat.
Translating to 'Kangaroo Dreaming' in Kalkadoon, Sutton said: "The painting tells the story of the kangaroo's story through life and how important the kangaroo is to my people from the Dreamtime to the present."
Excited to work with the talent behind Mannzilo, Akheel Khan, Sutton praised the founder and designer for his "remarkable artistic flair and commitment to quality," which motivated her to join forces and bring 'Matjumpa Ritjinguthinha' to life.
Eager to make an impact on the BFF24 runway, Sutton described the experience as "truly exhilarating," saying "the experience was both humbling and inspiring, showcasing the deep connection between art, culture and fashion".
"It's been an amazing journey, blending our cultural expressions in such a visually stunning way," she said.
Kaantju and Quandamooka designer and artist Brianna Enoch teamed up with iconic Australian brand Driza-bone, renowned for blending functionality with refined style for the modern adventurer.
Her captivating artworks 'Saltwater' and 'Women Gathering,' were featured on the inside of the brand's signature riding coats, making an unforgettable statement at the BFF24 opening night.
Paired with Rossi Boots hand-painted by Enoch, the collaboration is a must-have for those leading a rural lifestyle or who have an enduring love for adventure and exploration.
"This union celebrates the strength of heritage, craftmanship and culture showcasing the rich legacy of Australian design," Enoch wrote on her social media.
"Special thanks to Mrs Rinehart for her unwavering support and leadership making this collaboration a reality that honours tradition and champions creativity."
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