Grace Ngametua

“Being blinded by tradition, Mariner fights the battle of living according to her own will, not society's will. She sails away, riding the waves of life determined to find herself. Many laughed at her dream but get a rude awakening when her name becomes known by many, where she is her own keeper.

When I first received my colour, Resene Mariner, which is a sailor blue, tranquil and watery, I automatically thought of the sea, sailors, ships. Being of Islander descent, we were known for our va'as, and that we travelled far in search of new land. Va'aswas one of the many things we identify by, we used the sea to our advantage.

My mood board shows the process for my design, I researched about 1946 after post-war women expressed themselves in a way that they were celebrating themselves. Clothing showed off their body more, bringing empowerment to many women.

I discovered a designer named Vivienne Westwood. She is a designer that draws away from modern society and defies all laws of fashion. Her Pirate collection drew my attention because pirates are rebellious, and live life to their own will. I wanted to create a garment that is inspired by pirates because women are stronger, physically and mentally there is nothing they can't handle.

In 1946 Resene started by creativity. In honour of Resene's 75th anniversary I created a garment that will leave others wanting more, to empower women that they can do more than they believe they can. I wanted to celebrate the hard work of many men and women through the war period.”

Resene Whitecliffe Colour of Fashion clothing - 2021

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