This issue feels incredibly special, as we’re not only bringing you the latest in fashion but also a behindthe-scenes look at what’s happening with the Toowoomba Fashion Festival 2025. As proud partners of Runway 3, we’re thrilled to give you an inside glimpse into the fitting day, where all the magic happens. We’re also lucky enough to have a couple of our featured models, Madeline Braun Marziac and Sarah Jane Springer, share their stories with us
In this issue, we’re diving deep into colour analysis with the ever-talented Dimitie Kendall, who shares how to make colour work for your personal style. If that isn’t enough, we’ve also got an exclusive look at our incredible models from TFF and the vibrant energy that fuels their runway moments.
It’s been such a joy to pull this issue together, and I can’t wait for you to dive in Thank you for being part of this journey with us as we continue to build a space where style, creativity, and community come together
Enjoy!
Julz McBain
23
STYLE IN MOTION
Meet the featured models from Toowoomba Fashion Festival 2025.
Mastering modeling, Madeline BraunMarziac captivates in high-fashion campaigns worldwide
Back to Our Roots: Plant-based Textiles
Sustainable fashion is evolving, and plantbased textiles are leading the way
Meet Toowoomba Fashion Festival Head Stylist, Norma Niccoli
The End of Summer Glow Skin Cycling
The Trend That’s Simplifying Skincare for Every Season
Glamour and the Dust
The Transformative Rise of First Nations Fashion
MODEL diaries
By Madeline Marziac Braun
Modeling is more than a career for me it’s my passion, my craft, and something I’ve dedicated years to mastering From the moment I stepped into the industry at 14, I knew I wanted to be more than just another face in fashion Today, I’ve had the honor of gracing magazine covers, starring in major campaigns, and becoming the face of global brands Whether it’s high-fashion editorials, runway shows in Paris and Milan, or fronting luxury campaigns, I bring precision, adaptability, and a signature presence that clients seek out
Editorial work has always been one of my strengths I thrive in front of the camera, transforming into whatever the vision demands whether it’s timeless elegance, high fashion drama, or effortless minimalism My ability to embody different aesthetics while maintaining a strong, captivating presence is why so many brands and designers want to work with me.
Beyond just being featured, I become the identity of the brands I collaborate with. I’ve been the face of campaigns that define seasons, cover images that command attention, and projects that set industry standards My name is one people recognize in the industry, and my work speaks for itself But what drives me most is my passion for the craft the endless pursuit of excellence, the thrill of stepping onto a set, and the ability to create images that leave a lasting impact. Modeling isn’t just about looking good; it’s about making people feel something And that’s exactly what I do
BACK TO OUR ROOTS: PLANT-BASED TEXT
By Petria Cumner @stirlingandtruffles
Have you ever found that when we step outside our comfort zone and open ourselves to the mindset that anything is possible, incredible opportunities present themselves? The year 2024 was one of those periods in time for me personally and professionally. One period in particular was finding myself in London, winning a global award for my sustainability work and meeting the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson.
I had no intention of going to London, but when I was announced as a finalist for the Women Changing the World Awards, many people swiftly told me I had to go ‘You are a fianalist! You have a chance! Plus, it’s not every day you get to meet Royality!’ They had a point Well, a couple So I accepted the ride, and in doing so, it set off a cascading journey of amazing serendipitous events. Two of which inspired me to write this article about plant-based textiles.
When we arrived in London, I heard that the iconic, worldrenowned Chelsea Flower Show was on Growing up, I remember seeing Mum, my aunts and my grandmothe watching it on TV over the years, and I would listen t their oohs and ahhs. They were all lovers of nature gardens and in awe of what they witnessed Sadly, th matriarchs are no longer alive I thought to myself, w are the chances that I find myself on the other side o world when this show is on?
I had to go. We jumped online and grabbed one of the tickets remaining Wow! The show did not disappoint! just the beauty but also the embracing of the importanc sustainability. Then, something very unexpe happened. In an act to get in touch with my maternal ro I discovered someone working fascinatingly with roots
Here, I met the creative visionary and founder of Rootfull, Zena Holloway.
Zena crafts her creations using grass roots, water and beeswax Intricate patterns are carved into the beeswax, creating a pathway for the roots to follow. Unique patterns are formed to create clothing, sculptures, wall hangings, and lighting Collaborating alongside incredible fashion designers and music artists such as the legendary Imogen Heap The creations are a perfect example of a circular economy The ingredients are organic and locally sourced, with sustainability at the heart of the process. Water is reused from runoff, and any leftover shoot or seed is eaten as animal fodder
‘Every re-sold item saves 19 kg of CO2, extends a garment’s life by 9 months, and reduces its water footprint by 20-30% ’
as fellow Australian Leanne Savage. The founder of Acala Stem, Leanne, also has sustainability and social ethics at her core Using the lotus plant, stems are cracked, exposing a soft thread that is weaved into the finest material - Lotus silk once only worn by royalty and the highest ranking monks across Indochina Having taught English in Cambodia, Leanne saw first-hand the ethical issues of clothing manufacturing and the devasting impacts it had on the family members of the workers Not willing to become yet another company that contributed to modern-day slavery in order to make a profit, Leanne embarked on searching for a Cambodian supplier that supported their workers and their families
Plant-based textiles are not a new thing We have been using cotton, hemp, and linen for aeons, but with the surge and subsequent purge of fast fashion's favourite fabrics of cheap polyester and synthetic, fossil-fuel-derived fabrics having such a detrimental impact on the environment and our health, we are seeing some new plant-based fibres entering the market Fabrics from rose, corn, milk, aloe vera, bananas, oranges, ecalyptus, seaweed, the list goes on! With awareness growing about the social, environmental and health implications of not only synthetic fibres but also naural fibres, there is a shift in demand for more natural fabrics But how do you choose the right ones?
For more on decoding the fabrics, visit Stirling & Truffles
@acalastem
STYLE ME Fearless Meet Toowoomba Fashion Festival Head Stylist, Norma Niccoli
By Norma Niccoli
@style me fearless
Hello there, I’m Norma, a passionate personal and editorial stylist based in sunny Brisbane, with roots in South Africa and an abundance of Italian flair Fashion has always been woven into my story growing up around my mother’s successful tailor business, I absorbed more than just the art of style; I learned the value of craftsmanship, connection, and keeping it real
After more than two decades in the corporate world, I decided to follow my true passion helping people feel confident and fearless through style. My journey led me to study at the Australian Style Institute (ASI), where I honed my skills and developed a deeper understanding of the transformative power of fashion. From there, I immersed myself in the industry, working across personal styling, editorial styling, and creative direction, refining my craft with every opportunity
HER & I The Label is an extension of this passion a mother-daughter-run brand that blends our heritage, craftsmanship, and love for timeless style We create small-run collections, carefully curated with quality, versatility, and longevity in mind. Each piece is a reflection of our journey, inspired by our roots and designed for modern living.
When it comes to styling, my go-to tip? Start with one piece you love and build around it it takes the stress out of getting dressed and makes the process more creative and fun!
For me, fashion isn’t about following trends it’s about embracing your individuality, feeling empowered, and making intentional choices Here’s to celebrating style with confidence, authenticity, and a touch of adventure!
THE END OF Summer Glow
Written By Cat Ardi-Brennan
Skin Cycling 101: The Trend
That’s
Simplifying Skincare for Every Season
As summer fades and the crisp transition into autumn begins, I’ve noticed something new when I catch my reflection tiny freckles scattered across my cheeks A subtle change, but a reminder that, as I approach 40, my skin is evolving While I’ve never dealt with significant pigmentation, the effects of time, sun exposure, and daily life are becoming more visible This shift has inspired me to rethink my skincare routine, ensuring it remains effective yet gentle. Enter: skin cycling.
Skin cycling emerged as a major trend in 2024, and it’s one I’m wholeheartedly bringing into 2025 The concept is simple: rather than overwhelming your skin with multiple active ingredients every day, you follow a structured schedule that alternates between treatment and recovery. This method allows your skin to absorb the benefits of powerhouse ingredients (think retinol, AHAs, and vitamin C) while also giving it time to rest and rejuvenate.
The beauty of skin cycling lies in its simplicity and effectiveness A standard cycle might look something like this:
Night 1: Exfoliation (chemical or physical) to slough away dead skin cells and enhance absorption of active ingredients
Night 2: Retinol or vitamin A application to encourage cell turnover and target fine lines, pigmentation, and texture
Nights 3 and 4: Recovery nights, where hydration and barrier repair take priority, allowing the skin to restore balance before starting the cycle again
Rather than overwhelming your skin with multiple active ingredients every day, you follow a structured schedule that alternates between treatment and recovery
By following this method or something similar (check with your dermatologist before starting any regime) you can enjoy the benefits of active ingredients without overloading your skin an approach that feels both prescriptive and manageable
Of course, no skincare routine is complete without the right products As I fine-tune my regimen for the year ahead, I’m sticking to a curated selection of essentials that complement my skin cycling schedule
Regardless of how well I stick to my skin cycling routine, one thing remains constant: SPF With my skin showing subtle signs of change, sun protection is more critical than ever. Pigmentation, fine lines, and loss of elasticity are all accelerated by UV exposure, making a high-quality sunscreen an absolute essential. Whether it’s summer or winter, sunny or overcast, SPF is the one step I refuse to skip
The beauty industry is flooded with new trends and miracle products, but skin cycling feels different. It’s not about chasing the latest hype or layering on excessive steps it’s about working smarter with your skincare.
This method has allowed me to maintain a simple yet effective routine, giving my skin exactly what it needs at the right time
As I move further into 2025, I feel more confident than ever in my approach to skincare. While I can’t stop the clock, I can certainly give my skin the care and attention it deserves If you’re looking for a way to refine your routine without overcomplicating things, skin cycling might just be the game-changer you need
Cat’s Product Recommendations
Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask ($72) – This multitasking wonder delivers both physical and chemical exfoliation, leaving my skin feeling incredibly smooth and radiant It’s my go-to for exfoliation nights, helping to brighten and even out my complexion
Esmi Encapsulated Retinol 0.50% Level 2 ($85) – A gentle yet effective retinol that supports collagen production and refines skin texture. I use this on my vitamin A nights to encourage cell renewal and keep my skin looking fresh
Ultra Violette Queen Screen Super Glow Drops Bronzing ($45) – Sun protection is non-negotiable, and these bronzing glow drops provide an added boost of radiance while keeping my skin shielded from harmful UV rays
The Know’s Alpha-Blu Serum ($69) – This is the one product I use daily, no matter what stage of the cycle I’m in. It gently refines my skin’s texture while offering a layer of protection against modern-day stressors, including blue light exposure I swear by it for maintaining a smooth, healthy-looking complexion.
www.theknowskin.com.au
GLAMOUR AND THE DUST THE TRANSFORMATIVE RISE OF FIRST NATIONS FASHION
By Dr Sarah Jane Springer @glamourandthedust
Dr Sarah Jane Springer, the force behind Glamour and the Dust, is a proud Wiradjuri woman, rural generalist, consultant in First Nations health, cultural safety advocate, and model With a career that seamlessly intertwines healthcare, advocacy, high fashion, and her culture, Sarah Jane is redefining what it means to walk in two worlds both on the runway and in the boardroom.
A Movement, Not Just an Industry Beyond Trends: A Space for Cultural Empowerment
First Nations fashion is more than a rising industry it is a movement. It is a powerful reclamation of identity, cultural expression, and storytelling through design As a dedicated ambassador for First Nations fashion and creatives, Sarah Jane uses her platform to showcase the extraordinary talent of First Nations designers, models, and artisans, bringing their work into mainstream recognition
Her journey in fashion has seen her collaborate with leading First Nations designers such as Buluuy Mirrii, Clair Helen, Ngumpie Weaving, Mumred, Miimi and Jinda, Maara, Milan Dhiiyaan, and Daisy in Dots, to name a few. Her work
Through Glamour and the Dust, Sarah Jane also champions diversity beyond ethnicity emphasising age, personal style, and the multifaceted nature of First Nations identity
She believes that fashion should be a space of empowerment, where authenticity and cultural storytelling take precedence over trends As a national advocate, Sarah Jane works to amplify First Nations voices across multiple industries, championing cultural excellence and ensuring it is both recognised and celebrated. Her impact on First Nations fashion is significant, helping to break barriers and create opportunities for models, designers and creatives to lead and thrive
First Nations fashion is redefining modern style Sarah Jane Springer proves that cultural storytelling and high fashion are not only compatible but revolutionary Sarah is wearing Colleen Tighe Johnson - Buluuy Miri - Gunaguna Yuluwirri Nhiibi (couture dress) Photographer: Lowelle Hunter @salty one here
The Future of First Nations Fashion
As First Nations fashion continues to transform Australia’s style landscape, Sarah Jane Springer remains at the forefront, pushing boundaries, celebrating culture, and redefining glamour one runway at a time.
More than fashion First Nations design is a statement of sovereignty, resilience, and cultural pride. Sarah Jane Springer embodies this in her work with First Nations designers Sarah is wearing Samala Cronin – Mumred – velvet dress and head piece Daisy Hill - Daisy in Dots earrings Photograph by Lowelle Hunter from @salty one here
Dr. Sarah Jane Springer, a proud Wiradjuri woman, seamlessly weaves culture, advocacy, and high fashion into her work, showcasing the strength and beauty of First Nations design Photographer: Lowelle Hunter from @salty one here Clair Helen’s – Sally Top and Pants set in pink , Teagan Murdock - Ngumpie Weaving – emu feather headpiece, Daisy Hill - Daisy in Dots – earrings
Style IN MOTION
ELEGANCE MOVES THROUGH THE STREETS WITH THE FEATURED MODELS OF TOOWOOMBA FASHION FESTIVAL 2025, WHERE FABRIC AND FORM FLOW WITH THE RHYTHM OF THE CITY. LIGHT CATCHES SEQUINS, SILK, AND TAILORED LINES— EACH STEP A STATEMENT, EACH GLANCE FULL OF QUIET CONFIDENCE. THIS EDITORIAL OFFERS A GLIMPSE OF THE BOLD, SOPHISTICATED DESIGNS SET TO GRACE THE RUNWAY, FRAMED BY TOOWOOMBA’S VIBRANT STREETS.
Being a part of the 2025 Toowoomba Fashion Festival and presenting my second time on the runway is an extraordinary experience, particularly as a featured model Representing middle-aged models like myself is a significant honour.
The creativity of these esteemed designers is truly remarkable, and the realisation of showcasing their designs on the runway is a dream come true and a genuine privilege- Carol
Being a featured model at the Toowoomba Fashion Festival 2025 is an incredible experience. It’s a chance to showcase the skill and creativity of top designers, bringing their hard work to life on the runway Walking in these designs feels like being part of something powerful an opportunity to highlight the strength, style, and craftsmanship behind each piece. It’s an honor to represent these collections and be part of an event that’s setting new standards in the fashion world.- Akbar
Being part of Toowoomba Fashion Festival 2025 is an absolute honor. It’s an incredible platform that celebrates creativity, talent, and the artistry of fashion Walking the runway in such stunning designs is an exhilarating experience each piece tells a story, and I love bringing that vision to life The festival highlights the beauty of diversity and innovation in the industry, and I’m grateful to be part of an event that inspires and empowers both designers and models alike - Madeline
It feels great to be a part of the Toowoomba Fashion Festival because I know that it gives designers (new and established) a chance to show what they have to offer to a new audience I love seeing what is new in the fashion field and going to the runway shows is a way to do this. There are some truly remarkable creations and they deserve to be showcased. Being a model on the runway getting to wear these designs, some which are being seen for the first time, is an honour- Chelsea
Being part of the Toowoomba Fashion Festival means that I can continue to meet astoundingly gifted individuals who are working together to create a platform that represents true diversity. I can't put into words how it feels to showcase the vast array of designers. Each person has meticulously and lovingly created these pieces to highlight how they represent their culture, their skillset and their drive for inclusivity I am so honoured to walk for my designers to showcase how they are forging their own paths within the fashion industry and I can't wait to see you all on March 22nd- Emma
THE RISE OF
By Beau Minnet @minxcontemporaryhairboutique
or years, haircare has focused on strands shine, colour, and strength while scalp health remained overlooked But that’s changing Salons and stylists now recognise that a healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair. Enter the rise of the hair spa, transforming haircare from reactive to proactive
Why Scalp Health Matters
Think of your scalp as soil If it’s dry, congested, or imbalanced, hair struggles to grow strong. Issues like buildup, excess oil, and irritation are common, yet they’ve rarely been treated with the same care as hair itself Modern lifestyles pollution, stress, product overload wreak havoc on scalp health Clients are realising regular shampooing isn’t enough, and salons are responding with specialised scalp treatments.
The Hair Spa
Evolution
What’s a Hair Spa?
Hair spas offer deep cleansing, hydration, and nourishment for both scalp and hair. These treatments use detoxifying masks, exfoliation, and massage to restore balance and optimize scalp conditions
At Minx Contemporary Hair Boutique, we’re leading this movement While most salons have one hair spa, we have three the only ones in Queensland. Why? Because scalp health is essential, not just an add-on
A hair spa is an in-salon treatment designed to deeply cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate the scalp while nourishing the hair It typically includes a combination of scalp massage, detoxifying masks, and advanced hydration techniques to promote healthier hair growth and restore balance Hair spas are specially designed basin beds with fountain style water- think Vichy shower but for your head!
The Power of Technology: KScan
This March, we’re launching KScan, an advanced scalp analysis system. Using high-resolution imaging, KScan identifies dehydration, oil imbalance, congestion, and early hair thinning This machine will take close up photos of the scalp and allow you and us to see exactly what your scalp needs are.
Best of all? It’s complimentary with any Minx Hair Spa service. Or, book a standalone KScan consultation for $92, redeemable on a scalp serum tailored to your needs
The Future of Hairdressing
Scalp health isn’t just a passing trend it’s the future
Stylists are being trained to assess scalp conditions, recommend treatments, and educate clients on at-home care This shift is merging hairdressing with wellness, creating a more holistic approach to haircare
Clients who invest in scalp treatments report healthier, shinier hair and improved comfort Regular scalp massage even promotes circulation, reduces stress, and supports hair growth
The Role of At-Home Care
While professional scalp treatments are transformative, maintaining scalp health between salon visits is just as crucial Using sulfate-free shampoos, regular exfoliation, and targeted serums can help extend the benefits of hair spa treatments A healthy scalp routine at home ensures longlasting results, keeping hair vibrant and strong
Time to Prioritise Scalp Care
If you’ve never tried a hair spa, now is the time Whether tackling a specific concern or enhancing overall hair vitality, prioritising your scalp makes all the difference Because great hair starts at the root
the Current
A
WrittenbyMadelineVorrias @madelinevorrias
This Autumn/Winter season will different and unique trends From garmrents to bold colours and statement pieces, this report will cover all your wardrobe necessities for this season
80's and 90's influence
Yes, that’s right! this season we have seen lot’s of 80's and 90's inspired looks and garments on the runway.
Starting with 80's trends, The oversized blazer will be back. The large shoulder pads will be a statement this season. This has been seen in Saint Laurent A/W 25 which showed 80's tailored looking blazers paired with a pencil skirt
We are also seeing a touch of 90's elegance with slip dresses and neutral tones which have been shown in Prada A/W 25
Statement Outerwear / Maximalism
A statement jacket/coat will be a necessity this season to elevate your wardrobe Oversized and unique looking jackets are in this season, especially with a bold colour
Moncler and Prada have recently been showing larger jackets with a shiny finish Moncler has also shown some bold faux fur jackets which will be in this season
Leather
Leather seem’s to also be a standout textile for this winter season Bottega Veneta recently have shown leather trousers, leather oversized blazers and matching skirts These garments are also reminiscent of the 90's
Fendi have also displayed maxi leather coats and pants to match These are in earthy green tones
It seems that the trend in leather isn’t limited to one garment, we are seeing leather in pants, skirts and outerwear which shows that this is a prominent textile this season and worth purchasing.
ave you ever noticed how some colours make you look fresh and vibrant, while others leave you looking dull or washed out? The secret to looking effortlessly stylish isn’t about following trends or buying expensive clothes it’s about wearing colours that complement your natural features
Understanding your personal colour palette can transform your wardrobe It can make shopping easier, allow you to mix and match outfits easily, and ensure you always feel confident in what you wear Colour analysis is the key to unlocking this effortless style. It helps you to identify which hues work in harmony with your skin, eyes, and hair
Understanding Warm and Cool Colours
At the core of colour analysis is the division between warm and cool shades, as seen on the Colour Wheel Every colour has a defining hue, which influences how it interacts with your natural complexion
Warm colours have a yellow base tone, giving them a rich, sunlit feel Cool colours have blue/purple base tone, making them appear fresh and crisp.
Determining whether warm or cool tones suit your skin is the first step in identifying your colour palette
Discovering Your Skin Tone
One of the simplest ways to determine whether warm or cool shades suit you best is through the white vs. off-white test Hold a piece of pure white fabric and a soft off-white fabric near your face in natural light
If white makes you look fresh and glowing, you likely have a cool undertone.
If off-white is more flattering and brings warmth to your complexion, you probably have a warm undertone
To further test your undertone, hold fabrics in warm and cool shades near your face and observe which ones enhance your skin’s natural glow
Once you know whether you suit warm or cool tones, the next step is to identify your seasonal palette Colour analysis is divided into four seasons Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter each containing a specific set of colours designed to harmonize with your natural undertone.
Spring and Autumn belong to the warm spectrum of the colour wheel, while Summer and Winter fall within the cool spectrum
Spring colours are bright and vibrant tones
Autumn colours are rich and earthy tones.
Summer colours are soft and pastel tones
Winter colours are bold and icy tones
As there are so many colours in each of the seasons, to determine your correct season it is best to have a professional colour analysis This will provide the most precise and personalized results
How Colour Analysis Transforms Your Wardrobe
Once you know your colour palette, building a wardrobe becomes effortless. Shopping becomes more intentional, and getting dressed each day feels simpler Instead of struggling with mismatched tones, every piece you own will naturally complement your complexion
Make The Most of Your Palette
Introduce Your Best Colours – Incorporate your most flattering shades through clothing, scarves, accessories, and makeup. If a colour doesn’t enhance your complexion, incorporate it into your outfit through skirts, pants, or shoes To maintain balance, add an accessory in one of your best shades near your face This way, you can still enjoy wearing pieces you love without compromising your overall look.
Simplifying Your Style with Colour Confidence
Mastering your colour palette allows you to shop and dress with ease, knowing that every piece in your wardrobe naturally complements your skin tone and overall look. Rather than struggling to put outfits together, your clothing will work harmoniously, enhancing your natural beauty effortlessly.
Embracing colour analysis isn’t about limiting yourself it’s about gaining clarity With a well-curated wardrobe in shades that truly suit you, getting dressed each day becomes simpler, more enjoyable, and ultimately, more empowering!
