The brightly displayed window featuring pacific fashion which would be appealing to most cultures drew me in and it wasn't long before I struck up a conversation with store owners Radley and Regan.
I was impressed with the stories behind the garments, learning that most of the stores stock items were made in the Pacific Islands providing much needed employment for locals, and some of the fabrics used in the garments were even hand painted. I instantly fell in love with the recycled packaging clutch purses in bright reds, yellows and purples and the lady who makes them to support her income in Samoa. I knew instantly that these amazing young business owners needed to present a range at the NZ Eco Fashion Runway at Hutt Winter Festival on the 15th August. Lagi fits perfectly into the ethical, locally produced and artisan category and it is with enormous pleasure that we have them presenting at ouruo and coming runway show
Radley and Regan have never been involved in an event like this before and really didn't know where to start so I offered to help them style their runway collection. I know attendees to the runway will absolutely love the array of bright colourful garments, teamed up with bold accessories that they will present.
Lagi owners Radley and Regan are a family of first generation New Zealand Samoans, who have stepped out in faith to re-open LAGI – a renown Pacific store serving the greater Wellington region for the last 30 years. Their parents migrated in the early 1970’s and worked tirelessly to pave the pathway of opportunities that they now have. "We honour them and all of the Pacific pioneers in this journey of bringing the best of the Pacific to you"!
Their vision was to update the store to meet the style needs of urban Pacific peoples and their families. This means that they have totally renovated the interior to reflect the new direction they are heading in. They have also selected products that fuse Pacific and contemporary styles together, while still providing traditional handmade crafts.
Their brand is also proud to promote sustainability. They have products in store that are 100% organic, jewellery made from natural resources, clutches made of recycled packaging and artisan hand painted garments. They continue to introduce new products to their range including fashionable but dateless clothing and art pieces, some made by their very own creative team right here in Lower Hutt.
Afio mai, Maliu mai, Haere mai and welcome to your local Pasifika store!
You can find out more about Lagi by linking to their website or by visiting their newly renovated store at 233 High Street, Lower Hutt, Wellington.
Blog by Denise Anglesey
NZ Eco Fashion