The Clique by KZ offiically open

Jeptha Eddy photo
Kini Zamora welcomed friends, family and fans to the grand opening of his work/retail space, The Cliqque by KZ.

When it comes to what motivates designer Kini Zamora, it's always about his ohana, and on March 17, that extended to a statewide network of family, friends, fans and supporters who turned out to the grand opening celebration of his work/retail/share space, The Clique by KZ.

Keeping it ohana style, the celebration included plenty of food, with music by Robert Cazimero, people joining in hula performances, and the screening of the night's newest "Project Runway All Stars" installment, "Going for Baroque," with Kini still in the game after six weeks.

Among the designer's special guests were his "Project Runway" Season 13 competitors Sean Kelly and Alexander Knox, also in town for the Susan G. Komen Pink Tie Ball fundraiser March 18, that I advanced in Thursday's paper.

More than a just another typical retail space, Kini envisions The Clique by KZ as a shared space for fellow creatives including designers, hair and makeup artists, stylists and photographers in need of a place to work and sell their designs, jewelry, accessories and services.

Never forgetting his roots and many years spent working in his family's garage before "Runway" acclaim enabled him to secure a space, Kini aims to help others bootstrapping their way up toward success.

The Clique by KZ is at 99-1132 Iwaena St., Halawa. Visit thecliquebykz.com for more information.

I could not be at the event due to a work trip to Maui, but photographers Jeptha Eddy and Orlando Benedicto captured the moment:

Orlando Benedicto photos
Among Kini's special guests was designer Sean Kelly, second from right, his "Project Runway" competitor and Season 13 winner.

Kini also welcomed his fellow "Project Runway" Season 13 competitor Alexander Knox, pictured in lei, surrounded by fans.

The lively evening included hula, plus music performed live by Robert Cazimero.

Kini's wall of spooled threads provided a colorful backdrop for selfies.

On a night when a new episode of "Project Runway All-Stars" debuted, Kini's fans could watch and see how he fared during the "Going for Baroque" challenge.

The designer surrounded by his supporters.
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Nadine Kam is Style Editor and staff restaurant critic at the Honolulu Star-Advertiser; her coverage is in print on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Contact her via email at nkam@staradvertiser.com and follow her on Twitter, Instagram and Rebel Mouse.