Yarrabah artist Elverina Johnson’s fashion label launched across Myer stores nationwide

A Yarrabah designer has cracked the big time fashion market following the launch of a plus-size range now in stock at a host of major outlets across the country.

A YARRABAH designer has cracked the big time fashion market following the launch of a plus-size range now in stock at a host of Myer outlets across the country.

In an exclusive collaboration with fashion label Taking Shape local artist Elverina Johnson’s range will be stocked in 20 stores in all Australian states and territories, including Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Cairns Myer outlets.

Speaking from Sydney Fashion Week where her designs will gain international exposure Ms Johnson said she was delighted by the launch.

“It’s just been overwhelming,” she said.

“Taking Shape approached me years ago so it has been a long time in the making.”

Another proud moment for the highly respected Gurugulu and Indiji Gimuy woman came when the first Indigenous model to grace the cover of Australian Vogue was featured on the front of this month’s edition wearing one of her creations.

Indigenous model Elaine George in 1995.

Elaine George was featured on the cover of Vogue in September, 1993 as a 17-year-old model after being discovered by a talent scout at a Gold Coast theme park.

Inspired by a deep connection to a rich Far North Queensland culture, Ms Johnson’s prints are wearable art, with a story behind each design.

Taking inspiration from the beauty of nature and the history of her people Ms Johnson believes that art can empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and restore a genuine sense of pride in their culture and communities.

Aboriginal model Elaine George photographed in 1999.

She said “there are many roads to reconciliation” and the opportunity to collaborate with Taking Shape allowed her to share her story on a national platform.

“The traditional and very unique Australian country was my inspiration for these designs,” Ms Johnson said.

“In Yarrabah we are so lucky to have land and sea around us.

“My designs reflect the blue waters and the mussels of the ocean and the intricate designs of weaving, deep from within the rainforest.

“There is inspiration all around us, we just have to look.”

The range includes tops, leggings, linen suits and shirt dresses designed as everyday gear or styled up as formal wear.

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Originally published as Yarrabah artist Elverina Johnson’s fashion label launched across Myer stores nationwide