2009 Pasifika Hero winner by Jo Odgers Style Pasifika will continue its long history of inclusiveness when the culture and fashion extravaganza returns to Vector Arena in Auckland tonight. One of the highlights of the fashion show is the Pasifika Hero section, previously the fa'afafine section it's now a broader celebration of fashion design for the gay community and is sponsored by the New Zealand AIDS Foundation. In 2009 the section was won by Jo Odgers from Mt Maunganui, with the design in the picture on the right, modelled by Venus Mantrapp. Auckland designer and DJ James Leuii won the section in 2008 with a Victorian dress – also modelled by Venus Mantrapp - and will be back competing tonight. A number of GLBT designers also take part in the other fashion sections and the body art segment. Judges will search for winners in ten categories: Pasifika Body Art, Traditionally Inspired, Asia Pasifika, Three Piece Collection of Day Wear, Pasifika Hero, Urban Street Wear, Pasifika Menswear, Evening Wear, Pasifika Bridal and Parent
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Friday, 3rd September 2010 - 11:32am