Lumai is a women’s ready-to-wear label based in Auckland, New Zealand by Papua New Guinean born designer Dru Douglas. The ethically-produced label offers a predominantly cross-cultural aesthetic, intersecting Papua New Guinean inspirations with Western dress codes which results in a quirky, modern and sophisticated aesthetic with a strong silhouette. It tells a tale of globalization, empowerment, identity and evolving visions of Papua New Guinea.
Giving back to Papua New Guinea
Part of Lumai’s goal is also to give back to the women of Papua New Guinea, by collaborating with women’s artisanal collectives to help support initiatives in Papua New Guinea that empower women and help make their voices heard. They are currently in the process of producing the woven baskets with a weaving collective in Papua New Guinea.
About the designer
Douglas grew up in Papua New Guinea then moved to New Zealand to study Information Technology, sponsored by a fully-funded New Zealand Government scholarship. After completing a Bachelor’s Degree and working in the I.T. industry for seven years, Douglas decided to pursue a life-long interest in fashion. During the Fashion Design degree at Auckland University of Technology (AUT), he was given the opportunity to study abroad at the Amsterdam Fashion Institute (AMFI) for a semester in 2013. He completed a Fashion Design degree at the end of 2014 and launched the womenswear label Lumai late last year.
The Lumai Photoshoot
The Lumai photoshoot featured here was photographed by Julia Mage’au Gray and styled by Lan Lieu and Dru Douglas. Model/Hair and Make up: Aasha of MILKSHAKE MODELS.
Where to buy
You can buy LUMAI at www.lumailabel.com. Prices are around NZ$295 for a jumpsuit, $205 for a Fringe Top, $272 for wide leg pants. Check out their online shop for the full collection, at https://shop.lumailabel.com/
16th February 2018