Cult Couture from Maori, American Indian Cultures

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Carol’s winning entry entitled ‘Korowai’

Media Release
27 October 2005

Manukau Cult Couture Winner Inspired by Maori And American Indian Cultures

Villa Maria Cult Couture premier prize winner Carol Stanton says her garment ‘Korowai’ told a story of the traditions of two cultures.

Carol, from Wiri Manukau, whose garment also won the section ‘Flights of Fantasy’, has a great deal of pride and strong affiliations with her own Maori culture. She became interested in the American Indian culture during her visual arts studies at Manukau Institute of Technology some 8 years ago, where she majored in fashion design.

Her winning entry was inspired by her own Maori culture and its connection with the American Indian culture. Her garment was made of knitted wool fibre and covered with beads, lace and feathers; beads and feathers being a significant feature of traditional American Indian clothes.

Carol says she has always had a passion for fashion as long as she can remember, helped by heaps of encouragement from her mum and her grandmother.

“I have always loved to create and alter clothes, often brought from second hand shops. I entered the competition last year and enjoyed the experience so much I had another go this year. Nothing prepared me for winning an award, let alone the supreme award up against so many beautiful creations.

“My dream is to one day start up my own business and I am currently on a computer training course as part of my education to give me the necessary skills. I am going to use the prize money as an investment for my sons' future.”

ENDS

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