Fashion comes forward

Kharl-William Wirepa says the inaugural Oho Fashion show was about promoting local fashion and helping young people gain experience in the industry. Photo / Ben Fraser

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.

"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."

Mr Wirepa, who has previously shown at New Zealand Fashion Week, said there was also a mentorship role within the show.

"For the models and hair and makeup crew, it's about inspiring them and helping them realise what is expected of them in the industry. It's about giving them an opportunity to have a platform to leap from."

Make-up artist Michaela Bird (left) working on one of the models for the Oho Fashion show.

Helping backstage was experienced makeup artist Michaela Bird (Ngati Whakaue, Nga Puhi).

The older sister of the recent MasterChef winners has been doing professional makeup for four years having graduated from Auckland's Samala Robinson Academy.

"I think what I love about this job is when someone sees an enhanced version of themselves and how it can change their confidence," she said.

Ms Bird said working at the Oho Fashion Show was a highlight.

"I just love how this show is so close to our roots, Maoritanga and just being a part of it is special. [Being Maori] I think just helps a person as a whole. I always feel grounded, I come from a small community and being able to do something I love is awesome," she said.