NZFW 23: Kahuria feels different this year, and that's a good thing.
Here are a few fashiony things I’m excited about.
For the past month, my email inbox has been inundated with updates about the upcoming New Zealand Fashion Week 2023: Kahuria. It's almost surreal to think that it's happening as planned. As someone who has attended numerous Fashion Week events, both as a regular fashion enthusiast and as a working professional, it's exciting to be a part of this event for the fifth time as a delegate. I can't wait to see what this year's show will bring!
From what I’ve seen and read so far, the event organisers have Māori fashion designers at the forefront, an abundance of industry-led discussions and networking sessions and apparently, more disabled models have been booked than ever before. To add to the excitement, Kiri Nathan, who is a talented Māori designer, will be opening NZFW 2023: Kahuria. This marks a significant milestone as she will be the first Māori designer to open the event. It's a remarkable achievement, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to her!
Also, I just want to add that I’m THRILLED the event is being hosted back at the Viaduct Events Centre. Don’t get me wrong, I love a historic structure and the Auckland Town Hall is cute, BUT anyone who was at the last event will still feel sweaty from the lack of air conditioning inside that old building. Never again!
So, in the lead-up to the event: what am I most excited to see/hear/smell over the next 5 days?
Well.
Here are a few things I’m excited about:
Anything remotely vintage-inspired on the runway. You know I love vintage looks!
An inclusive range of models. I haven’t been to any castings, but I’m excited to see a diverse representation of models.
Sustainable textiles in use.
I want a complete and utter show-stopping catwalk moment, something that lives rent-free in everyone’s mind for weeks afterwards because it was THAT compelling.
The Pacific Fashion Fusion show is going to be a MOMENT. I attended their solo event last year and I’m not even kidding, the BEST fashion show I have ever witnessed.
Looking at new ways that the event is increasing sustainability.
Killer catwalk soundtracks. You’ll often find me having a boogie in my seat. No shame here.
The Cruz Del Sur fashion show on Saturday where the collection has taken inspiration from the forever glamourous, Frida Khalo.
VERY excited to sniff the custom-made NZFW 23 Kahuria fragrance which will be wafting throughout the venue.
The use of technology in new and exciting ways.
Massive amounts of glamour. I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling starved for intense glamour. I NEED it.
Some sort of runway confetti during a show, sustainable materials of course!
Here’s to an exciting event kicking off tomorrow morning!
Charlotte xx