“Got my loud coat and put it on proudly”: Colour and Clothes in Anita Heiss’ Avoiding Mr Right (2008)

Abstract

Acclaimed Wiradjuri author and Lifetime Ambassador of the Indigenous Literary Foundation Dr Anita Heiss uses her texts with a didactic purpose. In Avoiding Mr Right (2008), the main character breaks many stereotypes and she uses clothes, clothing and appearance to make a statement to others, give information about herself, her identities and choices. Through Fashion, Cultural and Postcolonial Studies lenses, this text pays attention to the meaning of the colour of the main character’s favourite garment and the concept of “Authentically Australian” fashion.