Maori weaves & merino wool can give new fashion: IMFAB

When the Moari cultural designs are merged with the New Zealand’s merino wool, it is likely to be the main point of difference on the world stage, according to The Indigenous Maori Fashion Apparel Board (IMFAB), a non-profit organization established by the New Zealand Government to promote Maori culture.

Speaking to fibre2fashion, co-founder of IMFAB, Ms. Ata Te Kanawa said, “Maori is the indigenous race of New Zealand and it has a distinct culture, history and aesthetic value that can be incorporated in fashion.”

“Maori aesthetics combined with New Zealand merino and/or wool could provide a refreshing new look that is profoundly New Zealand,” she says.

Some of the unique designs of Maori are flax weaving, kowhaiwhai, and poutama patterns. Contemporary kowhaiwhai patterns are inspired by the decorative panels of traditional Maori meeting-houses, while Poutama is a pattern on decorative thatched panels and in Maori culture portrays steps to higher ground, heaven or achievement.

Mr. Anthony Mosinkhof, a judge of IMFAB competition, says he is personally recommending Maori fashion to his networks in Europe, especially, the Netherlands and Germany.

Founded in 2008, IMFAB, aims to advance the quality status of Maori fashion design and to raise its artistic and professional standards. Every year, IMFAB hosts an annual nation-wide competition to select the best designers to show at New Zealand Fashion Week.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India