Our People: Kerry Trent Ranginui. he/him
by Charli Cox
·
Thanks again for supporting Koha Apparel and quite literally putting your body on the line. While you're not pulling a blue-steel look for Koha Apparel, what might we find you doing? During the day you will find me in The Karen Walker Sampling room doing my job as a head pattern maker and designer, I also run the Bridal Atelier collections so I get to meet with a lot of excited brides in the lead up to their big day. By night I work and Perform in various clubs and bars as my drag persona “MISS KERRY BERRY”. I'm also a long-serving volunteer of Pride Whanganui and the New Zealand aids foundation
What made you want to volunteer your time with Koha Apparel? I love the affordability access that Koha apparel offers to everyone. A lot of Koha Customers really need daily essentials and I couldn’t give my time and support to such a deserving organisation. There is also a lot of personal satisfaction volunteering.
What were some of your favourite pieces from our 'new season'?
I loved everything I got to try on, specifically an amazing fitting pair of navy twill trousers, I couldn’t believe they fitted me so well and such an interesting fabric, I read the label and laughed… they were Karen Walker and I had patterned them about 9 years ago (I have made thousands of garments I don’t always remember them all).
What would you say to encourage others to shop more sustainability?
Buying timeless pieces, shop considered even if it is fast fashion. Work on building a wardrobe of staple pieces (almost like a uniform) and don’t impulse buy. I also never reserve things for special occasions, they often never come and it's just another good piece that takes up space and doesn’t get worn.
What are some of your favourite places to shop? I am most often found rummaging thru op shops, especially in small towns (always find a gem), I buy a lot of our own (Karen Walker) fair-trade organic cotton styles. Trade me is also a great place to find preloved garments and I'm never disappointed with a trip to the army surplus shop.
