Fiji Fashion Week Trend Setters Show 2017
Let me just start by saying that lastnights Trendsetters Show was my favourite so far. For a moment it felt like I was at the MET Gala. And I'm not just talking about what was on display, I'm talking about what the guests were wearing. Setting trends and paving the way in Fashion, Suva does have an incredible crowd of fashionistas and trend setters. It was another dose of Fashion for me. I was draped in a black cape with Chinese golden embroidery along the sleeves and the back which I scored while thrift shopping three years ago in Lautoka. I thought it was compulsory that I made a statement with my outfit. It was a trend setters show and if I was passing comments and making remarks about a designer, I should at least look and dress the part as a critique/blogger. There were about fifteen designers that showcased lastnight and almost all of them I fell in love with. The collections were cohesive and very fashion-forward. But I have to choose my top three. So in no particular order, here they are. 1. Paris Nasaroa It was an adventure to the dark side with Paris' collection. He released an all-black line with turbans and sheer. As much as it was revealing, Paris added capes both for him and her which made a very subtle approach on the runaway. His choice of fabric was spot on and the cut on some of his pieces complimented the silhouette. Paris is a Fashion student at APTC and it was good to hear that his classmates helped him with the construction and tailoring of his collection. Great job my dear friend. **Disclaimer Paris and I have been friends for years but we need to give credit where credit is due.**
2. Ilai Jikoiono Now this designer is one to place your bets on. His enthusiasm and love that he puts towards his craft is beyond amazing. Ilai was the recipient of the the Fiji Fashion Week Rising Star Award for his ZUBER collection lastnight and showcased a fusion of bohemian and coachella styles with leather and (what looked like) velvet pieces. Ilai brought back the A-line skirts, something I haven't seen on the runway in a while. Clean cuts and fringes. It was like a revival of a modern day Pocahontas. Fabulous work Ilai and Congratulations.
3. Rowie Lal Rowie closed the show with a damn good bang! I felt like it was another version of Dolce and Gabbanas Spring/Summer 2015 with the head crowns and bold vibrant prints. Her sister Octavia Lal (Fashion Week top model 2011) opened the collection in a black silk suit with red and white bold Frida prints but my favourite look was worn by model Mykaela Powell. It was a beautiful Mexican silk inspired body-hugging dress with bottom frill and accessorised with an oversized red ruffled head-piece. It was all-in-all an effortless collection which would definitely hit the markets before you know it. Thank you Rowie for adding some spice to the runway.
Well there you have it guys. My top three picks from lastnights show. But before I go, I must shed light on another designer who displayed an exceptional collection. Oliver Sinclair is a student at international Secondary School and was the youngest designer that showed lastnight. He has been designing since he was in Primary school for the FJFW Children's and Students shows and has finally made his debut. Fabulous work Oliver! Just fabulous! I'm sure your family and your entire school must be very proud of you.
That's it from me guys. I won't be attending tonight's show as I have a prior engagement to attend but I will choose my top three designers based on images, videos and comments and will post it up tomorrow. Have a fabulous weekend. Penning out. DKS 😘
