James’ outfit, called I Heart Tapa Ware, was a strong, stylish and bold piece, with clear Polynesian influences. It bowled over the judges and Leuii walked away with $1,000 prize.
An extremely glamorous Venus Mantrapp, who has worn the winning outfit three years in a row, showed off I Heart Tapa Ware to devastating effect.
Elton Raharaha, Project Coordinator Pacific, says: “I’d like to congratulate Leuii on behalf of the NZAF and say a special thanks to Buckwheat for presenting the awards, and all the models and designers involved.
“The NZAF is proud to be the sponsor of the Pasifika Hero section and we always look forward to seeing the outfits and models. It’s such a popular part of the show and it is a privilege to be involved.“
There is a serious message behind the glamour – the NZAF wants to make sure that New Zealand’s Pasifika communities are looking after themselves and each other, and to raise the awareness of HIV in their communities.
Westfield Style Pasifika was held at Auckland’s Vector Arena on Friday 3rd September and featured the best of New Zealand’s up and coming designers and musical talent. Leuii also won the Heroes section in 2006 and 2008.
