Is it offensive for someone of a non-Indigenous background to wear your clothes?
It’s a common question we get asked, and we understand why it might be a concern. You want to be respectful and honour the cultural significance of the designs you will wear. The short answer is always a resounding:
Go for it!
When you wear Life Apparel’s clothing, you’re showing your appreciation, support, and respect for First Nations art and culture. But more than this – you’re creating an opportunity to start positive conversations, the types that inspire change.
We invite you to learn about the stories behind the artwork you’ll be wearing and encourage you – regardless of cultural background – to join us as we celebrate, support, and share the stories of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and South Sea Islander artists through wearable art and fashion.
Together we are stronger.
Together we are stronger.
# R E A L T A L K
What the artists thinks?
We've asked some of our collaborating First Nations artists for their thoughts on this topic. Their perspectives are both thoughtful and inspiring, offering unique and valuable viewpoints. Here are their views and reflections:
I believe that any means of expressing Indigenous culture in a respectful manner is a huge positive for everyone involved. Wearing Indigenous designs as a non-Indigenous person does not mean that you are trying to be Indigenous.
It means that you are respectful of the culture, supportive of the artist and that you enjoy wearing something a little more unique than a blank tee from a chain store. It is all about supporting unique art/artists with stories behind the pieces.
— Lara Went First Nations Artist
Wearing a piece of authentic clothing featuring a design done by an Indigenous artist is more than fabric on a body, it's a story - it’s the rich history of 60 000+ years of culture delivered to you in the form of clothing.
I believe in and fully support non-Indigenous people wearing Life Apparel garments featuring authentic Indigenous art.
— Ailsa Walsh First Nations Artist
From my perspective, as an Aboriginal Artist that has sold my own designs: I am sharing my art, my dreaming and my stories with you, and I give permission for you to have, hold and wear my art.
I would be more than happy for people of any cultural background to respectfully represent my culture.
— Elizabeth Close First Nations Artist
I would be very happy if non-Indigenous people wore clothes featuring my artwork. Indigenous designs are for everyone to enjoy, and if wearing them opens up conversations about our culture within broader Australian society, then these clothes and their designs have an important role to play.
I would be flattered if I walked down the street and saw someone wearing clothing with my designs!
— Glen Mackie First Nations Artist
Let’s create change together!
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Acknowledgement Of Country
Life Apparel celebrates and acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we live and work, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging for their generosity and custodianship of Country throughout Australia.
We recognise and honour the ongoing connection and deep spiritual relationship that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to this Country, and acknowledge the unique role they play in caring for and protecting it for future generations. As an Australian-led boutique label and proud allies, we demonstrate our respect for First Nations peoples through our commitments to environmentally sustainable and ethical business practices. We recognise their continuing connection to land and waters, and thank them for protecting our natural resources and ecosystems.
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