Ngali leaves crowds in wonder at Australian Fashion Week: STYLE UP

Ngali returned triumphantly to Australian Fashion Week, showcasing their latest collection: Wander with Wonder.

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.

With a growing presence on national and international stages, Ngali represents a future in fashion grounded in culture, creativity, and connection.

Style Up spoke with the talented designer behind the scenes at Australian Fashion Week.

Over the past few months, there's been a lot happening across both the creative and strategic side of Ngali. A large focus has been on developing and progressing collaborations with First Nations creatives; continuing conversations around how we can respectfully translate story, art, and culture into new forms and opportunities.

Internationally, there is a growing interest in brands that carry authenticity, purpose, and cultural depth, so we're exploring how to enter those spaces in a way that still feels aligned and responsible.

Alongside this, we've been preparing for some exciting new activity connected to Sir Doug Nicholls Round in the AFL, which is a meaningful space to contribute to and be part of; celebrating culture, storytelling, and First Nations excellence through another important national platform.

Francisco was thrilled to return to Australian Fashion Week.

It feels incredibly special to be included in the Australian Fashion Week line-up again. Every time we step into that space, it carries meaning, not just for Ngali as a brand, but for the broader visibility of First Nations fashion and storytelling within the industry.

I think there's growing recognition that First Nations fashion is not a moment — it's an important and evolving part of the contemporary Australian fashion landscape; and it's exciting to continue contributing to that conversation.

The 2026 runway also marked a special celebration for Ngali.

This year also feels particularly special creatively. We've worked with First Nations musician Ezekiel Power (Zeek), who has composed the stunning runway music for the show, bringing another layer of emotion and storytelling to the experience. And for the first time, we'll be presenting a runway with a majority of First Nations models, something we're incredibly proud of as part of our ongoing commitment to creating meaningful opportunities and visibility within the industry.

Speaking on the collection that walked the runway, Francisco said the collection is grounded in the philosophy of Yindayamarra.

At Australian Fashion Week, Ngali will present Wander with Wonder, a collection grounded in the philosophy of Yindayamarra, which speaks to moving through the world with respect, care, gentleness, and intention. The collection explores softness and strength existing together through fluid silhouettes, layered styling, and a sense of ease in movement.

Silk scarves remain central to the collection, acting as the heroes of the runway and bringing depth, versatility, and emotion to the garments they accompany.

As with all Ngali collections, the works are deeply connected to story, Country, and First Nation creativity.

Wander with Wonder reflects not only the visual translation of artworks into wearable form, but also a way of moving thoughtfully, inclusively, and with quiet confidence.

When discussing the growth in opportunities for First Nations creatives, Francisco adds that whilst this is a progression, ongoing collaboration and support will further cement this permanently.

I think there is already so much exciting work happening across the First Nations fashion space. This year alone, having three First Nations brands presenting at Australian Fashion Week reflects the continued growth and visibility of First Nations creativity within the industry.

What I'd love to see more of is continued collaboration; creating more opportunities for our artists, designers, models, and creatives to work together across fashion, art, music, and other creative industries in meaningful ways. That collective growth is really important.

For Ngali, we'll continue exploring collaborative opportunities that create both creative and economic outcomes for community, while also experimenting with new ways of sharing stories and extending the brand into new categories over time.