THE Oho Fashion show has awakened not only fashion in Rotorua, but the young talent wanting to get a foot in the door, says its organisers.
Kharl-William Wirepa was one of four designers who showed their latest creations at VR Lakes Resort along with Mereana Ngatai, Adrienne Whitewood and Hamilton-based Maree Maclean with her label Nobel Savages. More than 150 people attended what is hoped to be an annual show.
Mr Wirepa said it was about showing how powerful the fashion industry was in Rotorua and giving people the opportunity to showcase their talent in our own backyard. He describes his aesthetic as "glamorous" and other designers strongly projected their Maori culture through their designs.
![Kharl-William Wirepa (left) with fellow designer Adrienne Whitewood and MC for the evening, Kiri Danielle.](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/UV7HJKZWBA3HNGCFGOTUOQVKCA.jpg?auth=c58e913c1aaa1d1d8710adb9488b2652b7d1652f0ad6e190bdf1c927e97c2246&width=16&height=9&quality=70&smart=true)
"It's about enlightening the Rotorua community of the power of fashion, it's an unknown industry in this town," he said. "My Maori culture - where I come from we have a strong love of fashion, romance and storytelling and that is something I'm continuing."