Australian model Megan Gale is officially returning to David Jones as a brand ambassador. An announcement made by the retailer as it celebrates the launch of the new season, revealing Gale as the star of its Spring 2024 issue of JONES and the arrival of over 60 new Australian and international brands to its collection of womenswear, menswear, footwear and accessories.
I think it’s a great move because more and more, businesses are turning to established, well known, integrity-filled ambassadors who have established themselves as a brand but a brand that people do look up to. This is where the influencer world has been turned on its head: ‘tastemakers’ with credibility are working the best.
Not just ones who have a couple of hundred thousand (umm, often bought) and who have no engagement with the influencer or could even afford some of the stuff the ambassador/influencer is talking about.
“I am truly thrilled to announce my return to David Jones as an official Friend and ambassador,” said Gale. “My journey with David Jones has been a remarkable one, and I look forward to starting this exciting new chapter with my fellow Friends and continuing to champion the innovation and excellence that defines this iconic brand.”
Gale’s partnership with David Jones began in 2001 when she signed on as the retailer’s official ambassador, representing the brand both on and off the runway and starring in countless campaigns. The role, spanning almost 15 years, was extremely successful and memorable for both Gale and David Jones and remains Australia’s longest serving fashion contract between a model and a brand to this day.
“We are delighted to welcome the inimitable Megan Gale back to David Jones as an official Friend,” said David Jones CEO, Scott Fyfe. “We’ve been on a journey of reflection and celebration at David Jones, as we explore our rich heritage and relive some of our most iconic moments—moments that Megan has helped define. From gracing our campaigns, look books, and windows to her memorable return to the runway for our 185th anniversary last year, her presence has been an integral part of our story.
As we enter a new era with Megan Gale and embrace a vibrant season ahead at David Jones, we celebrate not just her return, but the enduring connection she shares with our customers, many of whom have grown up with Megan as a beloved figure in their lives. Megan has always been part of the David Jones family, and her return is a celebration of that deep, enduring connection.”
Gale’s official return as a Friend of David Jones will see her appear in campaigns and shoots once again, this time alongside First Nations fashion ambassador and Whadjuk Noongar man, Nathan McGuire, beauty writer and entrepreneur, Eleanor Pendleton, model, actress and Yolngu woman, Magnolia Maymuru, former Foreign Affairs Minister, the Hon. Julie Bishop, former Australian of the Year, AFL legend and Adnyamathanha man, Adam Goodes and model, musician and former footballer, Tom Derickx.
Megan’s first order of business: starring on the cover of the retailer’s Spring 2024 issue of JONES themed ‘Home Grown’, shot on location in Sydney’s Northern Beaches by renowned fashion photographer Georges Antoni and styled by Katherine Green.
“There was something quite special about shooting on the Northern Beaches. It was kind of like a homecoming, with a beautiful sense of familiarity,” Gale reflected. “Once I got on set and was around a team that I knew, it felt natural. Working for David Jones for 13 years was a highlight of my career, and it feels great to be back in the fold again.”
This season, David Jones is also excited to announce the arrival of Australian brands Christopher Esber, Sir, Mossman and Lack of Color to its portfolio, alongside international powerhouses Adanola, A.P.C., Off White and C.P. Company, with accessories by Jil Sander, J.W. Anderson and Missoma joining the retailer, among many others.
“David Jones has always been a cornerstone of the Australian fashion landscape, nurturing local talent and showcasing exceptional style. It’s a privilege to be part of that legacy and to support the vibrant, innovative spirit of Australian design,” said Gale.
This spring-summer at David Jones, women’s fashion is embracing head-to-toe tailoring, resort print dressing and all shades of blue. The ‘going out top’ also returns with a modern twist, featuring metallic blouses, sheer tops, and embellished pieces to enhance any outfit. Lilac has also emerged as a key colour, offering timeless elegance through lavender dresses, periwinkle bags, and violet shoes.
As for Gale’s go-to look for the new season: “I have my eye on a pair of high-waisted Aje jeans, which I’ll pair with a classic Jac + Jack tee and a timeless Camilla and Marc blazer. It’s quick, easy to put together and you can dress it up with heel so down with a pair of leather slides or sneakers.”
Meanwhile in menswear, there is a strong focus on denim, with patchwork hats, chambray shirts, and sharp jackets all making a statement when paired with classic jeans. The season will also revive utilitarian staples like cargo pants and quilted vests, styled casually with oversized polo shirts, baseball caps, and sneakers. Relaxed tailoring offers a smart yet laid-back look, combining chinos with a polo shirt or button-up and a blazer. Vibrant colours will make a splash in menswear too, from watermelon shorts to cobalt blazers, encouraging everyone to incorporate bold hues this season, either through standout pieces or colourful accents on accessories.
