ELVERINA JOHNSON X TAKING SHAPE THIRD COLLECTION IS HERE!

Elverina Johnson is back with a new limited edition collection featuring original prints inspired by connection to country and celebrating culture. A highly respected Gungganji Guru-Gulu woman from Yarrabah in Far North Queensland, Elverina shares her artistic vision in this stunning collaboration. Featuring two exclusive prints. Daba, in vibrant pink tones symbolising happiness and family and Garbara, in neutral and ochre tones. These original designs have been reimagined by Taking Shape to create unique styles perfect for Summer dressing.

“We are so proud to partner with the incredibly talented Elverina Johnson for this third collection. Together we have collaborated to create the beautiful Daba (Happy) and Garbara (Mangroves) story brought to life as wearable art on Taking Shape styles from dresses to dusters, swimwear, sneakers and accessories for all to enjoy.” - Michelle Bradbrook, Buying and Design Manager, Taking Shape.

Inspired by the sea and nature.

The process starts before painting. I love fishing and the beach. Everything that comes with the ocean has been part of my life growing up, it inspires me and helps me to formulate the concept and that’s before I even pick up a brush. My home is full of shells, painted crab shells, lots of stuff collected from the beach. These things help form a concept and inspire me to paint. The patterns and shapes come from what I see living by the sea. I’m inspired by nature.

Meet the Artist.

Elverina is one of the Nation’s most recognisable and accomplished artists. Her talents span the spectrum of visual and performing arts. Her belief is that arts can empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and restore a genuine sense of pride in their culture and communities.

Original Prints. Traditional Storytelling.

Enriching the fabrications with Elverina’s bold prints and traditional storytelling, invites the wearer to engage with culture and country.

The two original designs were hand painted by Elverina, both exclusive to us. Her vision was then interpreted by our designers and brought to life in this stunning collection.

Unique Style.

These wearable art pieces turn Taking Shape classics from Tunics to Tees into a canvas that’s sure to be a conversation starter.

Elverina Garbara Linen Duster

Elverina Garbara Natural Top

Elverina Garbara Tunic

Elverina Garbara Linen Dress

Elverina Daba Blouson Tankini

Elverina Daba Swimsuit

Elverina Daba Cold Shoulder Top & Pant

Elverina Daba Silk Scarf

“It’s not just pretty colours it’s the story that you are wearing.” - Elverina Johnson.

Educating Through Storytelling‌

Elverina is passionate or as she says ‘fashionate’ about teaching and sharing and bringing stories to a world audience. Art and fashion helps educate people and brings people together through First Nation storytelling.

Elverina coined the term ‘Reconstyling’ a catch phrase that describes educating people through art and storytelling using fashion as the canvas. It’s not just pretty colours it’s the story that you are wearing. It’s connection to story, to land, to sea, to nature.

You can go to a library, or read a paper to learn, but you can also walk into Taking Shape and wear a story. Seeing people wearing stories is a way to educate people and to Elverina that is ‘Reconstyling’.

Elverina's Connection To Taking Shape

“I love going to Taking Shape at Myer Cairns, all the colours and styles. You can go to a Taking Shape store and find something that will make you feel comfortable in your own skin. It’s a store that provides for anyone and everyone, catering to plus size women of all different shapes and sizes. Taking Shape catered to me.”

Enjoy What You Wear

Any woman should feel empowered in whatever they wear. Whether it’s size 8 or size 24, it’s all about building women’s confidence. We owe it to ourselves to build each other up and support each other. From looking after kids to others, our work never stops. Regardless of shape or colour you should feel great in your own skin.

The Limited Edition Collection

If you want to own a piece of Elverina’s wearable art make sure you shop the collection now. This limited edition collection will sell fast. Choose from a range of easy wearing casual pieces that can be incorporated into your daily wardrobe. Ranging from dresses to dusters, swimwear, sneakers and accessories these beautiful, colourful pieces will bring joy and understanding of the natural abundance and beauty of Elverina’s storytelling inspired by her homeland.

Elverina Garbara Linen Dress
Elverina Garbara Tunic
Elverina Garbara Linen Tie Pant
Elverina Daba Swimsuit
Elverina Daba Blouson Tankini
Elverina Daba Maxi Dress

“Live your best life in your best clothes. My latest collaboration with Taking Shape is all about enjoying what you wear.” - Elverina Johnson.

Add an artistic touch.

Complete your look with exclusive Elverina Johnson accessories. Choose from comfort fit sneakers to jewellery, scarfs, bags and twist fans.

Elverina Garbara Zip Sneaker

Elverina Garbara Shopper Bag

Fish Earrings

Elverina Daba Twist Fan

We acknowledge Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia. ‌