FASHION: TAWHIAO.COM - Debut Accomplished

Well now...not having the opportunity to watch the actual show myself I scouted the internet for photos of homegirls work on the catwalk. 

Completely and unequivocally AOTEAROA - Congratulations TAWHIAO, talk about a well deserved introduction to the international platform of fashion (spirit fingers working here) - enough talk though show them pictures ya'll. You can find full size pictures here.

Also big ups to MiroModa for existing and affording these opportunities to our talented designers that need just a little awhi to break into a very difficult industry. I hope international visitors were paying attention!

If you can't tell by the tiny-as pictures here, Tawhiao utilises the harakeke plant to enhance her outfits.

Now unlike when 'Pacific Fashion' broke out onto the fashion catwalks at competitions like Manukau City's 'Cult Couture' and Westfields Style Pasifika, most garments were cut out 'fala' or 'whariki' (traditional woven mats).

However, Tawhiao has always woven her outfits into shape, not cut out. Meaning a hell of a lot more work and thought goes into making an outfit out of plant!

This collection of works is called 'Te Whiri', which basically means to plait. And in home girls own words the collection is "Samurai, Roman, the Masai, and Maori of course. It's totally military warrior woman meets marching girl."  Love it :-)


Her label website is here, her shop in Avondale Auckland is here.  You can find all sorts of things in there and probably won't leave the shop empty handed! I never do. Congratulations Shona, big hip-hop love at you.