Lile Fletcher Vea

“The design of my garment was inspired by the tenth anniversary of the Resene Colour of Fashion with Whitecliffe. I wanted to create a garment that celebrates connection. Through my Resene Aloe Vera garment, I see to incorporate values they both connect with. The connection that inspired me the most was environmentally conscious design. Biophilic design is a concept that uses nature to inspire interior spaces. Research has shown that biophilic design elements like painting your space with earth-inspired hues like Resene Aloe Vera has positive effects on our health and wellbeing. With that concept in mind, I began researching different garments that would support these ideas and landed on elevated painter overalls.

With the choice of garment established, I began exploring ways to integrate concepts that inspired me and connected with Resene and Whitecliffe. I researched upcoming fashion and colour trends on WGSN and their meaning. The ideas that interested me in fashion were elevated utility, futuristic design and environmentally socially conscious clothing.

Growing up in the Pacific Island of Rarotonga, I have always been very aware of the importance of taking care of the environment and community. My mum was also passionate about environmental and social issues and always encouraged me to love others and the earth. For many countries impacted by global warming and erosion, protecting the environment isn’t just a nice idea, it is a must.

The reality of pollution and global warming is evident to many and is something I wanted to highlight in my garment. The people who live in heavily impacted countries don’t have the luxury of being ignorant towards it and we shouldn’t either.

I have incorporated design features such as woven straps (which link to biophilic design) and multi-function (which links to clothing becoming more socially and environmentally conscious).”

Resene Whitecliffe Colour of Fashion clothing - 2023

Photography by Jonathan Kraettli

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