At Australian Fashion Week 2025, Nagnata captivated audiences with more than just a new collection—it presented a powerful philosophy intertwined with style, sustainability, and a sense of responsibility. The brand’s latest show, Return to Earth, introduced a fresh vision that goes beyond fashion, urging us to reconsider not only what we wear, but also the impact we leave behind on the planet.
Founder and creative director Laura May explained that Return to Earth had been years in the making. It featured the launch of Nagnata’s first-ever organic cotton denim line, dyed exclusively with plant-based dyes. “It’s our vision of an organic cotton denim line dyed entirely with natural, plant-based dyes while continuing our expression of vibrant colour, staying true to Nagnata’s style DNA,” May said.
Before the runway even began, the audience was drawn into a short film starring Jess Gomes, Nagnata’s muse and long-time friend of May. In the film, Gomes is seen wading barefoot through mud, symbolically slicing the waistband off a pair of jeans. May explained, “You see her physically connected to the ground. Even something as small as a metal rivet shouldn’t be overlooked if we’re serious about compostability. It’s a symbolic gesture, but also educational.” Created in collaboration with filmmaker Nathan Lewis, the film set an emotional and philosophical tone, urging viewers to reflect on the deeper significance behind their fashion choices.
“The runway show offers a powerful, immersive moment, but it often leaves little space to communicate the nuance behind a garment’s purpose or process,” May continued. “Film allows us to take people a step further—to feel something.”
On the runway, the collection came to life with denim dyed in natural hues from Lutein, Matthiola, Indigowoad Root, and Bixin, resulting in rich tones of dull gold, bone white, and ruby. May described working with plant dyes as “a conversation with nature—one rooted in patience, and deep respect for the earth.” Despite the inherent limitations of natural dyeing, Nagnata’s color palette remained bold and true to the brand’s expressive identity.
The show’s immersive atmosphere was enhanced by sound design, which was composed in the Earth’s key of G major, and a reflective runway that mirrored the sky and soil. “We’re always exploring how to make fashion more dimensional; something you feel, not just see,” May shared.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Return to Earth was a meditation on responsibility and sustainability. May emphasized, “Even if a garment is well-made, even if it lasts decades, it should still have the ability to return to the earth without leaving harm behind. We absolutely believe in designing pieces that last… but nothing is forever.”
The concept of compostability wasn’t presented as a directive, but as an intention—a reminder of the consequences of creation. “Compostability isn’t a directive. It’s an option. A quiet but powerful reminder that what we create has consequences.”
As the show closed with Gomes walking the runway, it felt like a natural conclusion to the evening. May reflected on their shared journey, saying, “She’s someone who brings a grounded sensuality and strength to everything she does. We both returned to Australia during the pandemic—moving through transitions, reconnecting with land and a slower rhythm of living. It was a time of healing for both of us.”
Ultimately, May hopes that the audience walked away with more than just an appreciation for the fashion. “It’s not about preaching, but planting a seed. A quiet invitation to return to something more considered, more connected.”
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