From lavalavas to your favourite sei's, Panikeke graces the West with their new outlet and it's definitely bringing you a taste of the sweetest Pacific panikekes.

Samoan Global Sensation Parris Goebel choreographs the Vogue Paris Fashion Show 2024 Pasifika Dancers were also featured in the spectacle that took place in Paris last week. Teesha Taulepa (Tongan and Māori decent) Keanu Feleti (Tongan decent)

The future of Pacific fashion is here and thriving. We take you BTS of the fashion event of the year. It's giving 10s, 10s, 10s across the board. - Keepin It Fresh brings you all the freshness happening in our Moana communities, from Siva Afi Festivals to Fashion Shows.

The country’s foremost fashion event, New Zealand Fashion Week made its long awaited return after a four year hiatus at the end of August 2023. 60 designers showcased their artistry across the week including several Pasifika designers.   South Auckland born and raised, Samoan designer Susana Tasi held her own solo show on Wednesday morning - the first time a Pasifika designer has held a solo show at NZ Fashion Week since MENA in 2010. Susana who is now Gisborne based said she dedicated her show to the Tairawhiti community who are still recovering from the floods. {{34372}} “The palette was mainly green earthy colours and the whole theme around it was to inspire and instill Hope & courage that we’ll all get through this together” As is tradition at her shows, Susana had an amazing red garment (named after the Honourable Fiame Naomi Mata'afa the first female Prime Minister of Samoa ) to open her collection.  Being of Samoan heritage, it was important for her to pay due respect to her Samoan heritage first up. In showcasing her designs the heart of the show for Susana was inclusivity, originality & opportunity and more importantly to use the NZFW platform to create opportunities. - Follow her S.T business page here 

Nike celebrated the boundless power of movement and honored the collective strength of womanhood through a once-in-a-lifetime experience last night in Paris. Collaborating with Samoan choreographer, dancer, and Nike partner Parris Goebel, the Swoosh label unveiled “Goddess Awakened,” an immersive event that exalted the essence of movement, style and self-expression. Staying true to her roots the opening number above incorporated a Samoan siva in the set to the sounds of 'O le Taualuga' prefaced by Samoan guitar picking. {{33559}} Under Goebel’s artistic direction, over 30 Nike athletes and partners took the stage for a 40-minute performance, drawing inspiration from the legendary Greek goddess of victory, Nike herself.  Check out more photos and the full article via Hypebae here  plus more of the performances from the Accor Arena in Paris below -  {{33560}} {{33561}}

Bula Fiji Fam! Check out the beautiful designs, incredible runway and stunning cast straight from the catwalk of FIJI Fashion week! Keepin It Fresh brings you all the freshness happening in our Moana communities, from Siva Afi Festivals to Fashion Shows.

As part of the Pacific Dance Festival 2023, Tāmaki Paenga Hira Auckland Museum hosted Beau Louis Takapu Couture for a showcase of his 'SS23 Forever Grateful' collection. Forever Grateful is inspired by Beau Louis Takapu’s personal journey, paying tribute to the courage, strength, and individuality of his loved ones, to whom the collection is dedicated. Accompanying the Beau Louis Takapu collection was the Feohianga Alonga ‘ia Kalaisi Trust, a groundbreaking combination that celebrates creativity, design, fashion, and the rich culture of Tongan Kava clubs.

After a decade of lighting up the catwalk Pacific Runway is saying farewell with their last ever fashion show. The platform was designed to showcase the incredible talents of our Māori & Pacific creatives. For more than 10 years the Pacific Runway has featured some of the best of Pasifika style and fashion. They do it once again for one last time!  - Keepin It Fresh brings you all the freshness happening in our Moana communities, from Siva Afi Festivals to island concerts.

We head down to the literal streets of Papatoetoe! Where the Pacific Fusion Fashion show has shut down the main road to layout a catwalk. Designers and models from our Pacific community strut their stunningly bold work. You just have to see it! Keepin It Fresh brings you all the freshness happening in our Moana communities, from Siva Afi Festivals to Pacific Cabarets.

Just after Paris Fashion Week came to a close a couple of weeks ago, Simon Porte Jacquemus headed to O’ahu, Hawai’i to present his off-calendar Spring/Summer 2022 show. It was the designer’s first runway staged outside of France and the collection took place on a beach at the foothills of the Ko'olau mountain range in Hawai'i. A proper Hawaiian blessing was performed acknowledging the land on which all stood and giving thanks.  With the help of Hawaiian stylist Ben Perreira and creative director Taylor Okata, Simon used this as an opportunity to honour Hawaiian communities. Every model cast hailed from the South Pacific and the production team comprised entirely of Hawaiian locals.  More about the show via RUSSH here  {{28085}}

I am: Sulieti Fieme'a Burrows, 70 years old. I am a Tongan tapa cloth artist in Auckland. I like to collaborate with my artist daughter Tui Emma Gillies and our work has been exhibited around the world and bought by many private buyers and museums. I am from Falevai Village in Vava'u and I am good at creating with my hands. I have lived in New Zealand since 1978 and have two children and five grandchildren. My family is my world. - I am wearing: I am wearing a freshwater pearl necklace and earrings. I am also wearing a Tongan necklace known as a kahoa heilala, adorned with clay flowers I made myself by hand. Around my waist is a ta'ovala and kafa. The kafa acts as a belt. It is four metres long and is made from coconut husk and platted then decorated with small shells called pueki. {{28061}} My ta'ovala wraps around my waist to my shins and is made from Tongan flax called kie and is very detailed. It was made by a good friend from Ha'apai. I'm wearing J'adore perfume by Dior. You probably think you can't see it. But you can because it makes me smile. You can catch me on my daughter's page on facebook or instagram: @tuiemmagillies -  To fashion is an exhibition at The Britomart Pavilions in Te Ara Tahuhu staged by the New Zealand Fashion Museum, in which curator Doris de Pont asked 12 notable New Zealanders to be photographed in their own clothes to show how personal style helps communicate who they are. Photographer Edith Amituanai took the shots, and talks here about the project with Britomart.org Check out the life size portraits & exhibition on NOW: When & where Thurs 10 – Sun 27 March The Pavilions Te Ara Tahuhu Walkway Britomart Auckland Central Sat 19th and Sun 27th March Takutai Sq, Britomart Street style photography experience CLICK HERE for further details

I am: Navakatoa Tekela-Pule I was born in the front room of our family home in Grey Lynn. My placenta is buried under the pōhutukawa tree. I'm in absolute love with creating and the process that follows.  I'm filled with constant adoration of the world and its multitude of colours. I use creativity as a vehicle to explore my identities, my muses & aesthetic pleasures. I am currently exploring through poetry & painting. NOA RECORDS For healing and encouragement. @ https://noarecords.bandcamp.com/ -  {{28031}} I am wearing: 1. The things I choose to wear were created with both consideration and intent/urgency and clamour. The idea constantly moved between spaces of old and tried experiences to arrangements with my new youth and splendid calamity arranged like flowers.   Adornments "Pahū Culture" Pintuck Dinner Shirt Cotton Blend Screen Printed, Black Ink Gold Lipped Mother Of Pearl (Nacre) Cufflinks By Abigail Aroha Jensen @a.ro.ha   "Manifest Anything" 3 Piece Front Set 925 Sterling Silver Black Lipped Mother Of Pearl (Nacre) Inlay By Issac Rayneau IG: @phantomoftheopera_conspiracy   "Girlfriend" 5 Piece Ring Stack Set 925 Sterling Silver, Garnet By Gloria Florence IG: @saint_gloriaflorence       @fickle_fingers_nz   "Echos and Murmurs" Outer Piece - Red Twine, Gold Lipped Mother Of Pearl (Nacre) Black Manihiki Pearls. Inner Piece - Fishing Line, Freshwater Pearls. By Sofia Tekela-Smith IG: @duskifrompepjei {{28033}} "Monuina" 2 Piece Kingston Suit Cotton Blend Oil Sticks, Fabric Ink - Poem On Reverse- "& to have seen you in lava lava the fire of polynesia I will take you to my mothers country where hibiscus flower's tip their pollen into canoes drifting out to sea" By John Pule IG: @likupoet   "Tomorrow" Perfumed scent Head - Bergamont, Tuberose, Roses, Spiced Tobacco Heart - Chypre, Leather, Wood homme Base - Arabian Oud, Amber, Civet, Labdanum By Navakatoa Tekela-Pule IG: @wickedwngz All Listed Artworks Made In NZ, 2022.   narrative of the collective tapestry **text**para** Today  weaving // tying  // thoughts // around // each other  -  Check out the full interview with Navakatoa Tekela-Pule on the NZ Fashion Museum website here  -  To fashion is an exhibition at The Britomart Pavilions in Te Ara Tahuhu staged by the New Zealand Fashion Museum, in which curator Doris de Pont asked 12 notable New Zealanders to be photographed in their own clothes to show how personal style helps communicate who they are. Photographer Edith Amituanai took the shots, and talks here about the project with Britomart.org Check out the life size portraits & exhibition on NOW: When & where Thurs 10 – Sun 27 March The Pavilions Te Ara Tahuhu Walkway Britomart Auckland Central Sat 19th and Sun 27th March Takutai Sq, Britomart Street style photography experience CLICK HERE for further details

"I’m a very proud Manihikian and we are the only Island that grows the pearls from the lagoon, that’s why I want to use it in my work - to promote my island as well as my work” - Toka Toka Manihikian costume and fashion designer. {{25537}} London is set to explode with the colours of Polynesia as 22 year old Manihikian Toka Toka prepares to take his traditionally inspired collection of fashion to London Fashion Week next year.  Manihiki is famously home to the black pearl farms of the Cook Islands and is the feature of Toka’s work - his costumes and fashion line are a canvas for the natural shells of the Pacific. Black pearls, mother of pearl and motifs from Mother Nature make his pieces stand out in the world of Island fashion.  {{25541}} “When I was a boy, after school I would go to the beach and collect all the shells I could find and make my own costumes for all the local dance competitions - I would sew them on to my costumes and get on stage to dance and show them off. I’ve done lots of fashion shows in Rarotonga and my work caught the attention of a designer in Auckland who brought me over to showcase my collection in Auckland, which I did in 2020.  {{25545}} I was amazed to get a call from the local co-ordinator of London fashion week who had seen my work and invited me to be part of the bug London Pacific Fashion Show week, I will take the beauty of the Cook Islands with me, and showcase all this in London so they can see and be wowed by the part of the world that we come from. My first fashion creation was a headpiece that was sooo huge, it was three time bigger then the models head! {{25550}} I based it on the paua - the clam, as the sea is my biggest inspiration in my work. I’ve made everything from garments all in gold to a garment I made that was a rat costume which made everyone laugh - because people here know this here and its a thing that people can relate to. My most challenging piece was last years fashion show finale garment which has all these small details - it was called ‘Maine Kura Kura’ based on the hibiscus flower, it was a two piece garment with a crocheted bra piece and a headpiece decorated with crocheted hibiscus flowers’  I also celebrate all sizes - as Pacific people we are all shapes and sizes for all sizes in my work. I want to have a costume and a clothing brand, Im just starting out but I know that we have something special here in Rarotonga and very garment tells a story that I know the world will be interested in. {{25563}} My mum has been my number one supporter and she inspired and encouraged me to do everything, all of my techniques are taught to me from my mum - especially sewing so I want to pay tribute to her and the skills she passed down to me. Its important to use natural resources because this is the true value and representation of us as Cook Islands people - we are blessed by the gifts of the land and the sea that god has given us and we should be proud as Pacific people that we have all these resources, as most people don’t have these things.” {{25566}}

To welcome the Olympics, Keio Takakura (50 years old), owner of the kimono shop "Butterfly House" in Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, proposed a project "KIMONO PROJECT" in 2014 to produce kimonos with different characteristics representing 207 countries in the world, through Japanese traditions. Culture conveys the concept of "One World".   The project was helped by more than 130 kimono creators and craftsmen from all over Japan, including Yonezawa-ori in Yamagata Prefecture, Kyo Yuzen in Kyoto Prefecture, and Ryukyu Red Type in Okinawa Prefecture. The kimonos customised for each country all use the country's representative colors and patterns and other elements.  Check out the video above for all 207 custom made kimonos.  Here are our Pacifc Islands customised kimonos (including the Pacific island nations that didn't compete at the Olympics) with their explanations below -  - American Samoa  Kimono Maker: Shiraki-Sensho/白木染匠 “Samoa is divided into east and west; West Samoa is a ‘Samoa independent country,’ while East Samoa is still an American territory. I aimed for a graphical work with the national flag as a motif. This graphical design is a difficult technique to draw with a hand-painted Yuzen, hand-threaded, gold leaf, and embroidery. It’s a wonderful work with design ability and technical ability to reproduce it." Obi Maker: Rakuyo Orimono Co., Ltd. /洛陽織物 “In American Samoa, there are two traditional dyeing and weaving methods using barkcloth called ‘shiapou.’ This time, it was constructed based on the handwriting method called Mamanu, which was dyed and woven by a local Shiapou artist. Motif is often used in design at Shiapou. It’s a design that incorporates various local animals and plants into the lattice.” {{25244}} - Cook Islands  Kimono Maker: Kyozome-Seizan/ 京染せい山 The Cook Islands which are made up of 15 major islands scattered across the Pacific, are named after the discoverer, Captain Cook.  His ship, the Endeavor, is placed large, and the kimono painted with palm leaves and atoll scenery is an adventurous work. The background color is yellow, and the overall color scheme is also wonderful. Obi Maker: Tatsumura Textile Co., Ltd./ 龍村美術織物 “With the motif of the compass and the Endeavor, the romance of the Age of Discovery is woven by hand weaving in a gorgeous manner.” {{25203}} - Federated States of Micronesia  Kimono Maker: Sayaka Ohashi/ 大橋 さやか The Federated States of Micronesia, which consists of the Caroline Islands spreading over Micronesia, is called the Micronesia of the Rainbow, so it has beautiful nature such as four colorful birds, sea turtles, stone coins, hibiscus, and Pompei pepper flowers. It is made up of creatures. This work is an icon of the Nan Madol archaeological site, a World Heritage Site made with advanced masonry technology. Obi Maker: Ryoko-Orimono, Supervised by Hakusen/ りょうこう織物 監修 帛撰 “It faithfully reproduces the national emblem of Micronesia and is woven by Nishijin’s genius.” {{25197}} - Fiji  Kimono Maker: Michiko Sakai/ 坂井 三智子 A gold medal is hung on the sea turtles that fish are playing rugby in the sea and cheering while waving the Fiji flag. This is the idea of the author celebrating the Fijian team who won the Rio Olympics sevens rugby. It is a fantasy work that captures the sea and land in one world and is pleasing to children. Obi Maker: Nishimura Orimono Co., Ltd./ 西村織物 "Inspired by Fijian legends, snakes and snake eyes are reflected in the design of clouds and rainbows. Overall, it is a wonderful coordination set in the sky and sea of Fiji.” {{25191}} - Guam  Kimono Maker: Shoji Yamamura/ 山村 省二 Background (vertical and horizontal) A pure white pattern created from Kasuri and a gradation from the hem to the shoulders. Yacht sails, palm trees, and national flag patterns woven with Kasuri. It is a work in which the geometrical taste and the pictorial pattern of Kasuri are mixed in a simple manner. Obi Maker: Kaoru Sei/ 盛 かおる “Using Hakata-ori hand-woven techniques, hibiscus and yacht patterns were woven in combination with striped patterns. A work with a beautiful harmony of volume in the double-layered part and gloss in the single-structured part.”  {{25218}} - Kiribati  Kimono Maker: Tetsuya & Sayoko Matsueda, Ranseian/ 藍生庵 松枝 哲哉・小夜子 “Kiribati, an island nation in the South Pacific, is on the verge of being submerged due to rising sea levels due to global warming. Tetsuya Matsueda and Sayoko, the leading figures of Kurume Aya, dyed and wove the feelings for Kiribati that they felt through interaction with the children of Kiribati with natural indigo for the sky and sea and golden clara for the sun. .. Made with the finest cotton and 100% natural dyes, this work is unprecedentedly ambitious.” Obi Maker: Seiichi Endo/ 遠藤 誠一 “It was used as a hakama for many samurai in the Edo period, and after the Meiji era, it adopted Ogura Ori, which was used by many children who built Japan today. Among them, Seiichi Endo, who is stubbornly working on the restoration of the striped fabric at that time, devised a traditional striped pattern and used the colors of the Kiribati flag, red, yellow, blue, and white, while the people of Kiribati did not decorate it. The solid ethnicity of the core is woven vividly with beautiful thick stripes.”  {{25200}} - Marshall Islands  Kimono Maker: Fujiri-Kogei/ 藤理工芸 “The Marshall Islands, which consist of many atolls in the Pacific Ocean, are called “Pearl Necklaces of the Pacific Ocean” because of the array of islands. I boldly designed the situation on the collar and drew a beautiful national emblem as a big icon. The design of the national flag is skillfully adopted, and the silhouette of the sunrise sky and palm is also impressive.” Obi Maker: Nishiki-Kogei, Supervised by Hakusen/ 錦工芸 監修 帛撰 “It is fantastically woven using a unique foil with the national flag as a motif.” {{25241}} - Nauru  Kimono Maker: Okayama-Kogei/ 岡山工芸 “Nauru’s kimono, an isolated island in the Pacific Ocean, is a striking, bold, modern design of the ocean waves, depicting the parents and children of frigatebirds and albatrosses. The flowers of Alexandria are really beautiful, and the appearance of the parent bird gently gazing at the chicks is soothing to the viewer. The national flag is casually designed on the chest, and you can feel the Nauru-ness.” Obi Maker: Ryoko-Orimono, Supervised by Hakusen/ りょうこう織物 監修 帛撰 “Based on the blue of the Nauru flag, the waves of the Pacific Ocean are woven powerfully.” {{25230}} - Niue  Kimono Maker: Shiraki-Sensho/ 白木染匠 “Niue, an island nation in the South Pacific that formed diplomatic relations with Japan in 2015, is also known for issuing unique coins. The flowers of ANZAC Day and the beautiful sea and flowers are colored based on the yellow color of the Niue flag. Inside the coin, the national emblem of Niue and various landscapes are drawn, and the scenery peeking from the cave and the state of animals and plants will delight your eyes.” Obi Maker: Ryoko-Orimono, Supervised by Hakusen/ りょうこう織物 監修 帛撰 “Based on yellow and blue, we woven palm flowers boldly.” {{25248}} - Palau  Kimono Maker: Norihito Sakai/ 坂井 教人 "The Palauan kimono drawn in azure blue is drawn with the motif of tropical plants and Aoihimebat. Birds playing with each other and playing with their families. The author envisioned a reunion with a family and an encounter with a spouse that the Japanese and American soldiers who had fallen in the last World War could not fulfill. From the desire to seek peace that will never pollute the beautiful sea, the author calls this work “Eternal Blue” and sends a strong message to us living in the present age.” Obi Maker: Saito-Orimono, Supervised by Hakusen/ 齋藤織物 監修 帛撰 “Using the weaving method used for summer weaving, gardenia flowers are woven with the traditional Japanese Hanabishi pattern. It incorporates the essence of Nishijin’s hand-woven technology.” {{25188}} - Papua New Guinea  Kimono Maker: Nishiyama-Sensho/ に志山染匠 The beautiful sea, sky, and colorful orchids are drawn using a technique called “wet drawing Yuzen,” which draws directly on the wet fabric with a paintbrush and creates a unique bleeding style. In contrast, the “bird of paradise” realistically depicted in Radio Yuzen has a presence as if it were alive. “Rabaul Bay”, which was a fierce battlefield in the previous battle, is also drawn with a wish for peace.” Obi Maker: Obihiro Co., Ltd./ おび弘 “Using the technique of this bag, we have exotically designed birds of paradise and orchids on traditional masks and woven them by hand.”  {{25194}} - Samoa  Kimono Maker: Higuchi-Ori-Kogei/ 樋口織工藝 Rugby is the national sport of Samoa, which is said to be a paradise in the South Pacific. In addition, Samoa has its own tattoo culture, and with the cooperation of the ambassador, the designer incorporated that pattern into the design. The Samoa kimono produced as an unprecedented craft work is Ojiya Shuku in Niigata Prefecture. It will be the first linen fabric woven by Chijimi’s technique. Obi Maker: Watabun Co., Ltd./ 渡文 “The red ginger flowers are boldly designed, combined with tattoo patterns and woven by hand.”  {{25207}} - Solomon Islands  Kimono Maker: Sensho-Ichikawa/ 染匠市川 "The Kimono of the Solomon Islands, which was named after King Solomon’s treasure was believed to sleep, makes the sea and forest big with the yellow line of the national flag. In the calm sea, I drew birds flying in the sky, and in the deep forest, I drew white parakeets and frigatebirds with monitor lizards and insects. Also, by drawing a mask unique to Solomon, it shows the harmony between people and nature.” Obi Maker: Chikuzen Orimono Co., Ltd./ 筑前織物 “Spider lily is woven based on the color of the national flag, and the five stars of the national flag are also accented.” {{25222}} - Tahiti  Kimono Maker: Yui-Project/ 結project “Tahiti is the birthplace of many cultures on the Pacific islands, featuring tattoos, Tahitian dance, surfing and canoeing. The eight hooks (the fabric around the hem) and the sleeve swing (the fabric inside) contain crimson red and a tattoo pattern. The dancer with the silhouette of the back is drawn to emerge softly.” Obi Maker: Nishimura Orimono Co., Ltd./ 西村織物 “The symbolic tattoo pattern of Polynesian culture was deformed and woven using the Hakata-ori technique. Taking advantage of the characteristics of Kazetsuori, the same pattern is used on the front and back sides to reverse the color scheme, creating a two-sided work. In addition, we changed the design of the torso and the back when wearing it to express the dynamics of the tattoo.” {{25237}} - Tonga  Kimono Maker: Susumu Iwama/ 岩間 奨 “Tonga, the only kingdom in the Pacific countries. It is an island country surrounded by the beautiful sea. For Tongan kimono, I drew the royal palace, the Tongan free church, the basilica association, and the Neiafu cathedral in the color that divided the sea and the sky. Inside the hive skeleton and plumeria, the three stone towers of the ancient ruins Haamonga and Tonga’s premier power spot, the “Mimata Palm Tree,” are also depicted.” Obi Maker: Obihiro Co., Ltd./ おび弘 “Mainly on the sea and sky that can be seen through the wreath of flowers, it is woven by hand weaving using a mango juice called Otai as an accent.” {{25226}} - Tuvalu  Kimono Maker: The Late Akeshi Kihara/ 故 木原 Due to the effects of global warming, Tuvalu is about to sink into the sea. It was Dr. Akira Kihara who drew the beautiful sea, flowers and light of Tuvalu. The light blue on the right represents the sea, and the gentle purple on the left represents the sky. The hem is slightly bleeding in light blue. This is the “sinking Tuvalu” drawn by the author.” Obi Maker: Hattori Orimono Co., Ltd./ 服部織物 "It is a pattern of Tuvalu coins, which is a wonderful design that shows the richness of Tuvalu’s sea. Hand-woven genuine gold, platinum drawn foil brocade. It gives off a dignified luster using two types of real gold and platinum foil.” {{25185}} - Vanuatu  Kimono Maker: Aiko Kenmotsu/ 剱持 愛子 “Vanuatu, which consists of many islands, has different lifestyles depending on the island. Therefore, we created “our land” and “our” with the theme of the precious environment “nature”. The fangs of Tusker depicted are a symbol of wealth and prosperity and are also used in the national flag. Along with sand art, many flowers, flora and fauna, a variety of nature is drawn and the whole is put together in a mysterious green background.” Obi Maker: Shiko Co., Ltd./ 紫紘 “Submarine volcanoes, tuskers, sand art, etc. are designed in a hexagonal shell that combines Y and woven by hand.”  {{25234}}

Hunting Ground is a vintage fashion store in Newmarket run by sisters Sian and Tina Kolose.  Hunting Ground brings a brown Polynesian community together. . The Outliers is a gritty, unapologetic look at youth from minority backgrounds in New Zealand.  From great adversity comes great strength, so the aim of The Outliers is to search out youth who are the standout, the anomaly or the outlier in their community and in New Zealand. The Outliers meets inspirational youth while also exploring the source of most minority success - the community where they come from!

Fijian designer Epeli Tuibeqa has held his very first stand alone fashion show in Fiji for his label KuiViti. He has been the stylist and designer to 5 Miss Fiji representatives to the Miss South Pacific pageant. From this, KuiViti took form and was born - A Fashion House dedicated to promoting Fijian culture and prints. Epeli then made his debut with his maiden collection 'To have and to hold' at Fiji's premiere fashion platform 'Fiji Fashion Week'. The theme for his first solo show is "Noqu Kalou, Noqu Vanua" which means "My God, My Land" Follow Kuiviti on facebook here  and on Instagram here 

Marquesan Actor & Costume Designer Christopher Prenat was raised in Tahiti & grew up around his grandparents who were artists. He talks about the costumes he has mostly been creating for the Miss Tahiti beauty pageants and the inspiration he draws from when designing the costumes.

Beau Louis Takapu is a fashion designer with his own label. Beau has been on Project Runway and even designed a custom puletaha for The Princess Royal of Tonga! He is definitely a Creative Native.

We're keeping it Fresh at the Pacific Fusion Fashion Show in Manukau, South Auckland. Check out the highlights of the show which features local and international Pasifika designers, models, hair and make-up artists. It's the 4th year of the show and this year the theme is Fashion Factory!

The Pacific Fusion Fashion Show is now in its 4th year and continues to provide a platform for Pacific designers to showcase their fashion creations right in the heart of South Auckland. {{14639}} Held at the Vodafone Events Centre for the first time, Pasifika designers from Aotearoa, Australia, Samoa, Tonga, Hawai'i, USA, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea came together to showcase their Pacific inspired collections. {{14652}} This year the theme was ‘Fashion Factory’ - 'A new generation of Pacific skills and labour has arrived on the factory floor. We are the generation creating, designing, modelling and enterprising our way to success!' {{14641}} Event director and Fashion Stylist Nora Swann was also able to host a series of mini-events over the week leading up to the showcase on Saturday night including a 'Dressed in Confidence' workshop, a 2 day Business Capability Building workshop for the designers and a one day only pop-up shop.  {{14655}} 13 designers showcased their designs with 66 aspiring models working the catwalk. Check out the different designer collections below. Coco congrats to Gladierosa Hanipale who won the Face of Fusion 2019. . TAHIANO Designers - Alvis Meredith & Mata'afa Hans Wesche  Samoa & Tokelau (based in Samoa) TAHIANO is changing up the couture bridal gown game in the Pacific. There’s no better place to find a high-end gown in the Pacific.  recently had their gowns privately viewed by Vogue and Elle editor in Fiji, one of their greatest achievements yet. {{14680}} FUNK n SOUL 97 Designer - Tia Semi  Samoan (based in Australia) Tia Semi is an emerging Australian designer and model, who takes inspiration from her Samoan heritage. Tia has cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, epilepsy, and is deaf. She hopes that her journey as a designer will inspire others to follow their dreams.  Tia's collection is called ‘Malosiaga I Totonu’, which translates to ‘Strength Within’ in Samoan. {{14702}} LAVA's ORIGINAL FASHION WEAR  Designer - Lava Grossmith  Honiara, Solomon Islands  With no formal education for tailoring in the Solomon Islands, Lava was self-taught by her mother who was a tailor.  She enjoys creating outfits that can be worn all sorts of the occasion from the casual, street, evening and bridal wear. {{14731}} SAINT FINA  Designer - Seraphina Woods  Niuean (Based in New Zealand)   Saint Fina is showing for the first time at PFFS 2019. Saint Fina is a homage to Seraphina’s upbringing and her family. She has been working from home designing bespoke clothing for a growing client base under another brand. {{14745}} TALOSIA  Designers - Talosia Haulangi & James Laverty   Tuvaluan (Based in New Zealand)   Talosia Design is a luxury brand that focusses in couture and high-end collection season by season.  Talosia was born in Tuvalu (Nanumea) with a long history in fashion after working with brands like Max Fashion, DJ Station, Zambesi and Marilyn Sainty. {{14763}} INFAMY APPAREL  Designer - Amy Letogo  Samoan (Based in New Zealand)   She was prompted to get into the fashion industry because she was not satisfied with fashion options for Plus Size consumers.  Amy is committed to pushing the size restrictive boundaries of fashion while promoting body positivity and inclusivity. {{14782}} ARI SOUTH  Designer - Ari South  Hawaiian (Based in Hawai'i)  Ari South put Hawaiʻi on the map as the first designer from Hawaiʻi and finalist on Project Runway Allstars. She has since rooted and built her company on Oʻahu by blending high fashion modern designs with contemporary Hawaiian prints. {{14805}}  . During the intermission at the show, South Auckland Heavy Metal group 'Shepherds Reign' performed - check out a snippet of their 'In the shallow' rendition. {{14629}} . LE-ATA   Designer - Leata Mailo-McCarthy   Samoan (Based in Tonga)  The brand, Le-Ata, is inspired by LOVE for FAMILY, HERITAGE and PASSION for design, creativity and culture. Each and every piece is thoughtfully designed with incorporation of hand-printed designs that reflect pacific island motifs, primarily Tongan and Samoan. {{14846}} AAS TRIBAL FASHION   Designer - Anna Amos Papua New Guinea  Anna uses PNG tribal motifs to print and create contemporary PNG wear.  Her fashion design is part of community outreach program empowering women, people with disabilities, youth, vulnerable individual and it's gender inclusive. {{14871}} FRANtivity   Designer - Frances Nimeti Cook Islands (Based in New Zealand)  By day Frances works full time for NZ Police and has been for over 13 years. By night, she’s a fashion designer, with her brand Frantivity! This is Frances’ fourth year showcasing her work in a fashion show. {{14899}} VAE'S FASHION & ACCESSORIES  Designer - Ellaine Maepio  Honiara, Solomon Islands  Ellaine has great pride in her island heritage, blended with rich cultures and traditions, through diverse designs, patterns and colours which is the theme for her collection.  This is evident in the beautiful prints and patterns, mostly inspired by the beautiful locally made carvings in the Marovo Lagoon. {{14925}} NATIVE WEAR  Designer - Leiola Finau Rakau  Tongan (Based in Vanuatu)  Leiola originally started with handicraft in 2012 and seven years later, she launched her clothing label with the Royal Polynesian Fashion Show in Auckland.  This was her first-ever appearance on an international showcase. {{14945}} AFA AH LOO  Designer - Afa Ah Loo  Samoan (Based in Utah, USA)  Afa is an award-winning fashion designer who has been published in multiple fashion magazines such as Vogue UK, after he was invited in 2018 by Queen Elizabeth to represent Samoa and show one of his designs in front of the royal family.   He was also featured in Elle at the beginning of this year and was one of the contestants to compete in the reality TV show, Project Runway in the USA.  He was the first Samoan to compete on the show. {{14996}}

For Island women, we know the struggles and joys that come with our hair. Here are a few stories from our Pasifika sisters on all things HAIR!

Danika Cooper & Tumua Tuifao share how they got into jewellery making and how they were able to turn the passion for what they love doing into a business. Check out their business page on Facebook here if you'd like to order or have a custom made piece done https://www.facebook.com/danikacooperjewellery/ and follow them on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/danikacooperjewellery/

"I am Fresh out da Box cos I broke the box!" - Veronica Pome'e She's the first Tongan to ever make the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit pages. She shares with us how she got into modelling, her journey to making the final 6 and cultivating confidence within herself when she didn't think have a lot of confidence growing up as the 'bigger girl'

Fashion designers Mary Soonaoso & Nora Tiumalu of Fou Custom Made share why they're Fresh Out Da Box and talk about their inspirations, empowering women and challenging the status quo with their clothing line!

Pasifika & Maori women from around Auckland gathered at the Manurewa Netball Courts on Saturday for a night of Fashion, Food & Fundraising.  It was all in aid of the "Dressed in Confidence Wellness Centre" for vulnerable woman and children which is to be established in South Auckland in 2020. {{12701}} The Dressed in Confidence Fashion show's theme was 'Woman of Worth' and celebrated Pacific and Maori Woman in leadership roles with many of the models being leaders in the community including government dignitaries, National MP Agnes Loheni, Labour MP Anahila Kanongata’a-Suisuiki, Auckland Councillor Josephine Bartley and Otara-Papatoetoe Local Board Chair Lotu Fuli.  {{12928}} Along with the fashion show & catwalk the audiece was also introduced to Eco fashion by the show creator Nora Swann, who demonstrated how to mix and match clothing to create a sustainable wardrobe and demonstrated ideas on how to create new looks. "This isn't the first time I've done live up-styling, I used to be part of NZ Eco Fashion Week in Wellington, 7 years ago - so I sat on that committee and I ran a similar set-up.   {{12730}} I didn't have the whole shebang with the wardrobe and I thought 'next time I run it, I'm gna go hardout with the full setting so people understand that you're actually in someones wardrobe and then you walk the runway'.  It's nice to bring it back to life." Nora said  The show included a sit down dinner, entertainment from dance group M'Brace and Radio 531PI Breakfast host Brian Sagala on MC duties throughout the night.   {{12748}} Clothes modelled on the night were a mixture of the models wardrobe, Nora's styling wardrobe as well as pieces from a clothes swap.  "2 months ago I had a clothes swap & fundraiser for this - for Dressed in Confidence and it was people just bringing clothes from their own wardrobes and swapping.  Whatever was left over I took because I'll put it in the wellness centre and bring it to life (there'll be a 2nd hand store in there)  So we've got pieces from the clothes swap on the runway as well." Nora explained. {{12862}} All funds raised from the show will go to the Wellness Centre which will open in South Auckland next year.  Nora has currently been running "Dressed in Confidence" a wellness programme in schools with girls from the ages of 8 - 18yrs of age.  It's teaching girls self love and self worth with fashion as the medium and now she wants to expand the programme into her community. {{12931}} What I'm wanting to do now is reach my community, my wider community and work with vulnerable women and children within South Auckland so it's not only going to be a Wellness Centre but it's going to be Wellness and Employment Readiness.  There's going to be a 2nd hand store in there so they can have clothes to basically create a 'New You' knowing that you feel good on the inside and you've got the clothes to suit on the outside. {{12836}}

Shimpal Lelisi shows us his Aloha shirt collection, explains the inspiration behind it and what his Mum thinks of it ;) 

Tattoo artist Tyla Vaeau shows us her beautiful vintage pacific dress collection - some of which are real vintage and others that are vintage inspired and she's had made for special occasions.

We're keepin it Fresh on the Pacific Runway in Sydney, Australia! The show is now in it's 7th year and showcases designers of Pacific origin and their designs. Founder Jannike Seiuli has also opened it up as a platform for up & coming designers, hair & make-up artists, models and even videographers and photographers to be able to showcase their skills.

Meet Fashion Designer & Artistic Director of Aue Dance Company - Vivian Arthur Aue. My Name is Vivian Arthur Aue. I’m 25 Years old and my blood lines are connected to the Cook Islands. My father is John Kaokao Aue and he comes from Titikaveka and Mauke.  My mother is Ngametua Aue and she comes from Nikao. I was born in Auckland and I grew up in Onehunga but now I stay in Manurewa. I am a lecturer in Performing Arts at Manukau Institute of Technology. {{12109}} I am also the Artistic Director of AUĒ Dance Company here in Auckland and Fiji. Another passion of mine is fashion and I recently launched my own fashion label AUĒ LINE in November 2018, with my sister Puretu Aue. So now we are emerging Pasifika fashion designers ready to showcase more creations in 2019. {{12107}} You recently showcased your designs in a Cook Islands Fashion Show.  Did you have a theme for your designs and where did you get inspiration for them?  The Cook Islands Fashion show was called Aku Yanga and was held at the Mangere Arts Centre in November 2018. {{12105}} Our collection is called ‘AKETEREI’ - which is my mothers given Mauke name by a papa tumu korero when she married my father. The theme and concepts behind our collection are the strong and significant female figures in my life from my mother, grandmothers, sisters, aunties, cousins and friends. Their presence, their soul, power, their mana, beauty and grace in how they hold themselves throughout life is what inspires this collection to come alive. So it’s a real precious collection which was created from the heart and soul.  {{12119}} How long have you been designing or been interested in the fashion industry and what was your pathway to get to this point? I was invited to showcase a collection in Aku Yanga by Paul Hagai, the creator of the fashion show and we went from there. So Aku Yanga was the first platform for me to showcase my passion of fashion designing.  {{12127}} 2018 was the first year I began my journey as a fashion designer and it’s been a great journey so far. My sister and I have always been interested in the creation and designing of Cook Islands Traditional Rakei (Costumes). We designed the costumes for One Tree Hill College Cook Islands Group for Polyfest 2018 and we loved it. We are again in the processing of creating costumes for One Tree Hill College Cook Islands Group 2019 and we are so excited to showcase what we have created. {{12122}} Do you have any favourite designers that you look up to? Yes I look up to Mohammed Ashi (Middle Eastern Designer), Zerina Akers and all of the fashions designers who create for Beyonce. {{12129}} Do you have anything else coming up that we can look out for? Yes we in the process of creating a 50 piece collection for the Bottega Fijian Fashion Festival 2019 in Suva Fiji. So we are looking forward to this amazing opportunity.  . We also have a new Pacific contemporary dance show which opens on the 27th of Feb and runs through until the 2nd of March.  The show is called OIRE | VILLAGE and is an ALL female movement response to the structure of each individual dancers village back home in the islands. We are portraying themes of womanhood, the female figure, discrimination, myths, rituals and ceremonies from each individuals village. We open a discussion of how we as a cohort can create a refurbished village in 2019 here in Aotearoa. What does that look like? Sound like? Taste like? Smell like? And how can we create peace and harmony? Or can we not? Details on where you can buy tickets on the poster below -  {{12227}} If people would like to purchase your outfits how can they do that and do you custom design for people as well? Yes. You can email us at auedance@gmail.com, contact us on Instagram @auedanceco_aueline or on Facebook @AUĒ to purchase any of our garments. Yes we custom design garments for anyone who would love to wear our vibrant and original creations.  {{12131}}

Afa Ah Loo is the Samoan designer making waves in the American Fashion scene. What most people won’t know is that Utah based designer, Afa Ah Loo is more than just a designer. The former Marketing Manager turned teacher now turned fashion designer (add to that - Samoa Idol 2010 Winner), had no idea that taking the plunge into an industry he knew nothing about would see him recognised on a worldwide stage in such a short time. {{26138}} Afa appeared in the hit Bravo series Project Runway in 2019. Two years later Ah Loo is making a comeback on "Project Runway Redemption" that started airing on American television last week (trailer below)  {{26143}} Even before his entrance of TV Afa found himself in influencial places in the industry. Two of his pieces featured at the Miss World 2015 Pageant in Sanya, China both in a judged category and the Finale night. A show which was broadcasted live on air in multiple countries around the world. {{26136}} But discovering his talent was accidental, to say the least. “I registered late for high school that year and I had no choice but to take home economics,” “All the other options were full.” It was at Church College of Western Samoa, a young Afa was taught how to sew a hand mitten - a project that took an entire term for most students, but just a few days for Afa.The same speed and zeal is reflected in the time he takes to make an outfit now. {{26134}} “It only takes me about a day or two to make a wedding dress,” explained Afa “If it takes me longer, I get frustrated.” A few years ago when Miss World Samoa contestant Latafale Auva’a contacted him requesting if he could design for her, Afa was already on his way to LA Fashion week. “I didn’t have much time planned for it, so I made her dresses within three days, I had to send it to New Zealand that same day to get to her before she flew to China.”   Afa’s debut collection was hailed by some Fashion bloggers as their pick of the evening, amongst all the other praise it received. “Never in a million years did I dream that I would get so much appreciation.” he said One of Afas famous collections, "Amioga Samoa" was inspired by Afa’s late mother, who was buried the day before he flew out to his first ever showing, in New Zealand. {{26140}} “My mother was a very stylish woman. She loved bright colours, loved to wear earings,” “She loved to dance. She was always a bubbly happy go-getter kind of woman.” said Afa fondly. Her death inspired Afa to take the brave step of starting his own business and following his passion. “I wanted to carry on the legacy that she had left for me.” {{26142}} When asked what advice he would give to other young people following their dreams, his message is simple. "Live a spontaneous life. That's what I do best." - By Indira Stewart (Updated by Coconet)

Tongan/Maori designer Massey Williams makes his debut to New Zealand Fashion week... at the Miromoda Showcase which featured a mix of established and emerging fashion designers. Massey's line titled "Canvas the World" uses canvas as his predominant fabric and draws inspiration from the world. The strong military aspect acknowledges the increase of "acts of terror" at home and abroad. This collection combines the functions and qualities of military garments as well as conveying street appeal. SUGGESTED LINKS: Rock yo fashion Coco style

Representing Sigatoka, Fiji; Model Phillipa Steele graces the pages of Stylist Magazine (U.K) with "In The Wild". The countryside is set as the backdrop for me to walk the huskies in imagery by Anoush Abrar, wearing cozy knits, shearling coats and blanket dressing by the likes of Phillip Lim, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Isabel Marant, styled together by Sorrel Kinder for the 25th of November issue of Stylist UK. Hair & Make-up by Laetizia Di Milta. Fiji Fashion Week first knew Phillipa was going to go far when she came 2nd in our inaugural MHCC Miss Teen Model competition held in 2012. She was fresh out of Sigatoka with absolutely no modelling experience but she caught our eye.  The point of the competition was to find models who were YOUNG and FRESH and train them under the Models Fiji Management so they could be runway models for Fiji Fashion Week held in October 2012.     

We caught up with some "Lovely Larger Ladies" at a Fashion event in central Auckland recently. Our vibrant roving reporter Yolande Ah-Chong got the down low with the ladies at the show, Check it out! Special thanks to: Regina Alai - Regina and Peachtree

Take a sneak peak on both sides of the tapa runway at the Samoa Arts Councils inaugral Samoa Fashion Week ... The week came to an end on Saturday night with a spectacular runway show at the Tanoa Tusitala Hotel. Full access to come on FreshTV.   Check out some more highlights from Samoa Fashion week here

The Pacific Fusion Fashion Show showcased Pasifika fashion, designers and models for the 3rd year running in South Auckland - this time at Ambury Regional Park in Mangere Bridge. Meet some of the designers behind the fashion on the runway at this years show! 

The 3rd annual Pacific Fusion Fashion Showcase for emerging Pacific & Maori fashion designers & models went down on Saturday night at Ambury Regional Park in Mangere Bridge, South Auckland. This year the theme was 'Recreation' inspired by the elements of earth, air, fire & water in amongst nature at Ambury Park. 13 designers showcased their designs with 45 models working the catwalk.  Check out the different designer collections below. Coco congrats to Game of Bros Season 1 winner Louis Ova who won the Face of Fusion 2019. . LIFT ISLAND FASHION Designer - Nancy Elizabeth Thompson (Tongan, American & Samoan) Based in Carson, California “I design for women who don’t want to be classified, a woman who wants to be sexy and modest, a damsel and the hero.  A woman who can run a business and keep a home.  Simple, yet complex.  Women are multifaceted but simple all the same and I work to put that energy into my designs.” {{11047}} AKANA  Designer - Alecia Kana (NZ Maori) Based in Wellington, NZ  “Being a Mama and full-figured woman carrying children, I know how much of an effect it can have on our bodies and the changes we can go through, I aim to design easy to wear mid to high-end fashion garments that are timeless, effortlessly flattering on any woman and can be worn multiple times in multiple ways.” {{11067}} MOTFAW  Desginer - Annmarie Williams & Tuomas Pekkala (Samoan)  Based in Auckland, New Zealand  Inspired by many creative sources including her Samoan culture & artists Gauguin and Magritte.   “The style, colours and how they portrayed masculinity spoke to me. Men are modest, but there is so much in the unspoken details, especially in Gauguin’s paintings, the peace and stillness, the colours and how Gauguin portrayed Pacific people,” she says. {{11072}} TAHIANO  Designers - Mata'afa Hans Weche & Alvis Meredith (Samoan & Tokelauan)  Based in Apia, Samoa  “Fashion was a huge part of our lives,” says Hans, whose Tokelaun roots inspired the name ‘TAHIANO’. “We grew up with our mothers and aunties who were seamstresses and surrounded by our grandmothers who wove hats and mats etc.” {{11091}} MOLLY & GRACE  Designers - Monalisa Owen & Sisi Tasi (Samoan & Niuean) Based in Auckland, NZ  “As Pasifika women embarking on this journey at a later age, this is a bold statement to other women that there should be no limitations when you start something.” {{11100}} KOLCHA DVINE DESIGNZ  Designer - Leu Tiatia Wasasala (Samoan)  Based in Christchurch, NZ  “This journey of mine is more about what I can do for others, as well as me overcoming numerous fears of failure, it’s also about leading the way for many other women who have hidden talents yet to be tapped into.” {{11107}} DANE DAGGER  Designer - Dane Dagger (Cook Islands) Based in Wellington, NZ  “I can’t wait to unleash the beast out of hibernation, PFFS is an important platform for Pacific fashion designers who want to go further with their careers and passion for fashion.” {{11116}} KIRRIKIN Designer - Amanda Healey (Australian Aboriginal)  Based in Australia  Healy started Kirrikin after a successful 35-year career in the mining industry and now enjoys working with indigenous peoples as a social entrepreneur.  Healy also uses Kirrikin’s excess profits to run programs with Aboriginal women in prison. {{11117}} MOO.DY  Designer - Fa'aolataga Chadwick (Samoan)  Based in Wellington, NZ  “I think of fashion design as creating a piece of art on a human body, I want to touch people’s lives by using fabric to inspire their day and help them shine as an individual.” {{11138}} TIARE TEITI  Designer - Ida Teiti (Tahitian) Based in Honolulu, Hawai'i Reintroducing femininity to a society that’s “gravitated towards shorts” is the mantra of Tahitian born fashion designer, Ida Teiti. {{11162}} NUMIA  Designer - David Taumoepeau (Tongan)  Based in Auckland, NZ  “I’m influenced by high-end street designers such as Rob Garcia, Mike Amiri and Jerry Lorenzo, I wouldn’t really call myself a designer though, it’s a hobby and something I do for fun.” {{11175}} FOU Custom Made  Designers - Asomaliu Tagiilima, Nora Gase Harriman & Mary So'onaoso Tiumau (Samoan)  “We want to empower women to be proud and embrace their bodies in all shapes and sizes, no matter their shape, anyone can rock a sassy, gorgeous outfit.” {{11193}} Red Ice  Designers - Sidath Wickremeratne & Jewelz Taufui (Sri Lankan & Tongan)  “We specialise in bridal and evening wear for women and garments for men as well, we don’t mind who comes through the doors, they could be a size 6 or a size 28. We treat all people with dignity and fulfil their requirements as good as we can.” {{11205}}

Samoan designer Cecilia Peterson Keil (Cecilia's Fashion House) was one of the Pacific designers invited to show her collection at the London Pacific Fashion Week in September. {{11022}} London Pacific Fashion Week was promoting Fashion Designers from the Pacific Region - Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Nauru, Tonga, Solomon Islands, American Samoa and Samoa all had designers who participated. {{11010}} It was held at Australian House at the Strand (London City) and Cecilia said 'it was an amazing experience to show our collection at a London Runway together with other Top Designers from the Pacific.' {{11006}} Cecilia's Fashion House collection was inspired by Climate Change and Cultural Appropriation which was depicted thru the prints.  "We've diversified by evolving the elei motifs and patterns as main stream elei/mamanu Samoa has been copied and mass produced by foreigners." Cecilia said. {{11015}} Cecilia's Fashion House catered for the European Market, designing jackets with the added Polynesian Flair.  Well known singer & actor Nick Afoa who is currently in the London production of The Lion King as Simba, took to the LPFW runway modelling for Cecilia as well.   {{11025}} "It was a real privilege having a successful known son of Samoa in that part of the world strut out and promote Ceceilia's Fashion House and he is continuously doing so after the London Pacfici Fashion Week - Thank you Simba lol!" she said  {{11020}} It would be awesome to have other sons of Samoa (and daughters) like the Rock Seiuli Johnson & KJ Apa from Riverdale etc rocking and promoting Pacific designers labels across the globe to show that us Coconuts can achieve too.   All the models at LPFW were great and especilly in the amazing venue of Australia House main hall which is also Gringots bank in Harry Potter and featured in Wonder Woman too."  added Cecilia 

Aolele Creatives - Leone Samu Tui shows us why she's Fresh Out Da Box. Leone creates beautiful Polynesian Earrings. She show's us how she creates her unique earrings, and where she drawers inspiration from!

Lawyers by day and Fashion Designers by night! Muriel Lui co-creator of the Maugalui Clothing brand shares what's unique about their clothing line. . Like us on Facebook Subscribe to our YouTube

Fashion Week in the beautiful Island of Tahiti, stay tuned to see some of the best designers from all over the world showcase their pieces. Like us on Facebook Subscribe to our YouTube