“New Generation” Runway show beams light on Australia's Future in Fashion

By Sakara Bell

In a country that has given the world powerhouse labels like Carla Zampatti, AJE, Hansen & Gretel, and Farage, it’s clear that Australia’s fashion scene is rich with creativity and innovation. These designers have not only shaped the fashion identity of Australia but have also paved the way for the next wave of talent. And if this year’s Australian Fashion Week is anything to go by, the future of Australian fashion is in very good hands.

It was a show that captivated audiences and signalled an exciting new chapter in Australian fashion. While 28 designers took to the stage throughout Australian Fashion Week, it was the “New Generation” runway that truly stole the spotlight. Designed to showcase emerging talent, this show was a vibrant celebration of creativity, innovation, and cultural expression.

Here are five designers Australia needs to keep an eye on: Miimi & Jiinda, BOTEH, Buluuy Mirrii, Permanent Vacation, and Haluminous. These stunning brands left a lasting impression, and now it’s time to take a closer look at what these rising Aussie designers have to offer.

Let’s start off with BOTEH, a brand that radiates bohemian beauty—a blend of Australia’s ocean waters and desert skies. Founded in October 2020 by Amelia Mather, BOTEH was born from over two decades of experience in the fashion industry. Specialising in resort wear and swimwear, the brand is deeply inspired by nostalgic memories, handcrafted prints, soft fabrics, and a strong commitment to sustainability.

Mather believes in the richness of experience: revering the old, savouring the present, and seeking the new. This philosophy was evident on the “New Generation” runway. With dreamy prints and a distinct sense of nostalgia, the collection transported us to a time when everything felt beautiful and full of wonder.

Miimi & Jiinda is a First Nations brand created through the loving connection and shared creativity of a Gumbaynggirr mother and daughter. Melissa, the founder, creates hand-painted original artworks that are transformed into both fine art pieces and high-end sustainable clothing. When we think of First Nations Australian culture, we often think of powerful storytelling through art—stories written in the skies, the stars, and the land. Melissa channels this beautifully into her designs, drawing inspiration from her Gumbaynggirr heritage. Another key figure behind Miimi & Jiinda is Lauren, a master weaver. She crafts intricate woven designs that enhance Melissa’s work, adding texture and depth to each collection. Together, their creations are a celebration of fashion, creativity, and most

importantly, culture.

Buluuy Mirrii, which means “Black Star” in the Gomeroi language, was created by fashion designer Colleen Tighe-Johnson. Her vision is to harness the spirit of her ancestors and revive Gomeroi Dreaming stories through fashion. The brand celebrates a wide range of Aboriginal talents by incorporating commissioned Gomeroi artworks, which are transformed into fabric patterns, printed onto luxury materials, and sewn into one-of-a-kind garments. “When you buy a Buluuy Mirrii garment, you are buying much more than a piece of clothing... Each piece carries a unique story and spirit.”

Permanent Vacation is an ongoing project series that explores design as an expression of emotion and sentiment. Created by Claire Louise Smith in Melbourne, the brand is proudly local, with all garment production occurring within a 15km radius of its Abbotsford studio. When you think of Permanent Vacation, you probably imagine a never-ending holiday— and that’s exactly the vibe. The brand embraces simplicity: creating high-quality, effortless clothing inspired by art, culture, and timeless design. Each piece is meant to integrate seamlessly into modern wardrobes, with subtle detailing that transcends fleeting trends.

Haluminous was created and designed by Sydney-based Hannah Kim. Even before exploring the garments, the name itself conjures a world of fantasy, fairies, mythical creatures, gothic romance, and femininity—and that’s exactly what is the meaning behind it. Kim’s designs take you on an emotional journey, celebrating the beauty within darkness. Her collections are expressed through woven fabrics that evoke nostalgia and longing, creating a dreamlike narrative on the runway.

This years ‘New Generation’ show was truly groundbreaking, and all five designers embodied a beautiful blend of storytelling, cultural heritage and sustainability in the runway show at AFW. If this is any indication to go by of what the future of Australian Fashion looks like – it's going to be incredible.