Student designers impressed at the Wearing Fiji fashion, Fiji’s first live fashion show since COVID-19 restrictions eased, that was held at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva tonight.
More than 10 aspiring designers took centerstage, each showcasing three designs reflecting their interpretation of the theme ‘Tropical Chaos’, but it was 15-year-old Sara Du whose designs made an impression on the judges, to be named the Wearing Fiji 2021 Project Student Designer of the Year.
Sara’s designs were featured alongside 11 others including Maira Du, Kajol Chandra, Maureen Mortel, Jone Bainivalu, Manase Veiqaravi, Ilisoni Raikayalo, Shane Pickering, Amelia Waqairamasi, Susau Elaisa, Liti Cava, and Vanshika Sharma.
Only the second edition since its inaugural showing last year, Wearing Fiji is the brainchild of established designer and 2019 Designer of the Year Samson Lee and TV and radio personality Neisau Tuidraki with a view to not only give back to the local industry but also give aspiring designers a leg up via its mentoring programme whilst helping all stakeholders involved generate additional income during the COVID19 pandemic.
They were ably supported by other big names in Fiji’s fashion industry in the likes of Hupfield Hoerder, Natalia Larsen, Robert Verebasaga, Andrew Powell, Ashley Daunibau and Temesia Tuicaumia who also showcased some of their designs on the night.
The show was initially scheduled for 1 May, but was postponed due to COVID19 restrictions. Tonight’s show was also a send-off for NZ High Commissioner to Fiji Jonathan Curr and his wife Fololeni Curr who have been great supporters of the project.
