KAFTA: A celebration of Kimberley Fashion and Textiles

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY Marley Morgan

↑ Designer Tracey Mulardi. Image credit Marley Morgan

↑ Designer Rowena Morgan

↑ Michael Jalaru during the business forum

Born from a clear call from Kimberley art professionals and regional communities, KAFTA was established to create locally-based creative and fashion industry pathways. This initiative is a testament to self-determination, being completely Kimberley-run and actively engaging local businesses to provide essential equipment and event services. This commitment to local engagement ensures that the benefits of the event directly uplift the community, fostering a strong sense of ownership and pride.

Each year, KAFTA transforms Broome’s iconic Town Beach Jetty into one of Australia’s most picturesque outdoor runways. Against the breathtaking backdrop of the Kimberley sunset, the event showcases an incredible array of fashion, textiles, and art from talented artists and designers spanning all corners of the Kimberley region. Beyond the runway, KAFTA often includes a Pop-Up Fashion Fair, offering attendees the unique opportunity to purchase directly from Kimberley creatives, along with a Gala event that celebrates the fusion of tradition and contemporary style. 

Throughout the week, there were also valuable workshops held at the business forum, providing essential industry insights. Adding to the dynamic program, photoshoots took place during both morning and afternoon sessions, culminating with the iconic Broome sunset as a stunning backdrop. 

KAFTA is more than just a showcase; it’s a catalyst for inspiration and growth. It empowers Kimberley textile printers, fashion makers, designers, and creatives in performance and photography, providing them with a vital platform to develop and present their work to a regional and national audience. By fostering confidence and professional development, KAFTA helps to build sustainable careers and businesses right within the Kimberley. It’s a powerful reminder that the oldest living culture in the world continues to innovate and lead in the contemporary creative landscape.

The success of KAFTA in Broome underscores the incredible talent and resilience of First Nations artists and designers. It’s a celebration of living culture, a testament to community-led initiatives, and a beacon for the future of Indigenous fashion and textiles in Australia. 

DAAF Foundation, through Indigenous Fashion Projects, were proud to be able to attend and support this incredible event. It was inspiring to be able to sit and yarn alongside the designers and artists involved during the week, and we look forward to seeing many of them take the stage at Country to Couture later this year.