Australian lifestyle label Liandra returned to the runway at Australian Fashion Week on Friday, debuting a collection inspired by themes of coral ecosystems and ancestral connection.
Founded by designer and proud Yolŋu woman Liandra Gaykamangu, the brand’s latest runway presentation merged contemporary style with rich cultural storytelling drawn from Indigenous heritage.
Following her debut at DHL Next Gen in 2023, where she launched her first resort wear collection, Gaykamangu has significantly expanded Liandra’s offerings to include more ready-to-wear fashion that moves beyond beachwear.
This year’s showcase featured the launch of two exclusive hand-drawn prints. The first, ‘Coral of Life’, draws on the vibrancy and complexity of coral reef ecosystems, while the second, ‘Seascape’, captures the warm hues and relaxed ambiance of golden-hour summer evenings by the coast.
Inspired by Yolŋu culture, the new collection symbolizes an interconnected and evolving ecosystem, where each part contributes to the collective whole. The coral metaphor reflects a cultural lineage that grows and adapts, representing the resilience, richness, and spiritual continuity of Indigenous traditions across generations.
True to its innovative roots, the collection incorporates ACETEX swim fabrics, known for their sustainability and high-performance properties. These materials offer exceptional stretch, shape retention, and resistance to elements such as chlorine, UV rays, and saltwater.
In keeping with its ethical focus, the brand also featured certified fabrics, such as the Bamboo Satin Blend, central to the new ‘Coral of Life’ design.
Beyond the garments, Liandra’s 2025 runway show was carefully curated to reflect the spirit of celebration and cultural pride. The backdrop was set to the music of Rona Ngamperle, an emerging Anmatyerr musician whose art is deeply rooted in First Nations storytelling and identity.
Ngamperle’s unique sound—fusing traditional influences with modern tones—was a fitting complement to Liandra’s fashion, both of which honour legacy while embracing innovation.
The runway itself embodied joy and energy, with models adorned in vibrant colours, bold accessories, and expressive styling. Items like cowboy hats, oversized sunglasses, and chunky-soled sneakers added an edgy twist to the cultural homage.
Liandra Gaykamangu, recognized as one of the top-performing First Nations designers in the fashion industry, used this platform to reinforce her commitment to heritage, sustainability, and ethical fashion.
Her 2025 showcase was not just about design—it was a statement of purpose, drawing attention to Indigenous knowledge systems, slow fashion, and culturally respectful production.
By unveiling these new prints and celebrating her brand’s core aesthetics—distinctive colours, meaningful motifs, and a coastal-inspired vibe—Gaykamangu demonstrated once again how cultural authenticity and modern fashion can successfully coexist.
As she continues to evolve her brand and deepen her narrative with each new collection, Liandra Gaykamangu solidifies her place in Australia’s fashion landscape, offering a powerful reflection of Indigenous talent, innovation, and legacy.
Related Topics
- Erin Hawker: The Driving Force Behind NYC’s Menswear Renaissance
- Flash of Fashion: The Surprising Star Accessory of Australian Fashion Week
- Laura Byrne Glows at Australian Fashion Week as She Flaunts Baby Bump in Floral Dress
