Fashioned in Culture
Jeanine Clarkin is a pioneer of Māori fashion in Aotearoa. Having started her eponymous label over 27 years ago, Jeanine's design story is one where success and integrity have been woven together to create a design history and practice that encompasses Haute Couture to Slow Fashion.
Jeanine has shown collections in New Zealand and internationally and continues to champion indigenous design both at home and abroad.
She draws her design inspiration from the conceptual body of the Wharenui, Whare Tinana (body), Wairua (spirit), Mauri (life force) and Te Taiao (environment) and how these are held together in balance.
She incorporates patterns which originate from Tukutuku, and through her creative practice continues the tradition of Māori women’s fibre art.
Her commitment to sustainable fashion is reflected throughout her work and, notably her collections focus on repurposing vintage, fine woollen textiles.
Jeanine's ethos provides the medium for her exploration of colonization and the exchange of Māori lands for blankets. Her garments are contemporary high fashion statements, founded in Matauranga Māori.
Upcoming Events

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Listen to Jeanine talk on Radio New Zealand about her journey as an Indigenous Designer & Activist

Te Aho Tapu Hou Exhibition Celebrates Māori Fashion Designer

Jeanine Clarkin on 28 years of Māori fashion activism

Te Aho Tapu Hou: An exhibition showcasing Jeanine's earlier fashion influences, major events, and current fashion collections

Te Aho Tapu Hou Exhibition go on display at Taupō Museum

What fashion activism looks like in Aotearoa

Visit Jeanine's Style File on FashioNZ and learn her style secrets & design inspirations

Listen to Jeanine talk with Dale Husband about her exhibition Te Aho Tapu Hou

Young artists mentored on Waiheke