Another fashion show event?

I am sure the headline got your attention and that is purely intentional! Being an avid social media user, I have read several disses and comments about our local fashion houses and virtual events or fashion challenges during the time of COVID-19.

COVID-19 has hit every industry, sector, nook and corner. I think its unfair to call out arts, fashion or even music as not important, after all it does put food on the table for those in this industry just as much as it does for someone from the tourism sector, education or construction sector.

Creating continuity of opportunities and adapting to the new normal is important for whichever industry or sector you belong to. The fashion industry has and is putting on its finest and bravest face to adapt to the new normal. Everyone in every sector or industry is trying and trying is what we should all be doing. (and yes, we should all try to be kind to one another each and every day!).

Keeping that in mind and doing the rounds in our very own local fashion scene is Wearing Fiji. It is a local initiative that will fundraise to develop the Fijian fashion industry and provide an education and mentoring opportunity for emerging student designers.

When I heard about this, I thought fantastic! I know a few gang that are so talented when it comes to fashion and design but really have not received much direction or support to flourish. This initiative will no doubt be welcomed.

A fashion show is scheduled for September and it will be invite only and of course bearing in mind the restrictions in place. Wearing Fiji is co- founded by Samson Lee and Neisau Tuidraki.

A model casting for Wearing Fiji was held last Saturday and enthusiastic models came to strut their best for the judges. All I did was admire everyone’s stilettoes and imagined myself in their shoes, except I would be crashing down on the runaway (not that I am anything close to catwalk/ model material LOL).

I enjoyed the vibe of the model casting and the amazing Kim (who by the way was in the tallest stilettos ever), guided and provided tips to aspiring models. The fabulous Vly was also present and kept everyone in high spirits and who spotted model material loitering outside, decided to encourage them to give a shot at modelling!

Samson Lee’s team was present and hard at work making sure the model castings went on without a glitch!

I am excited to see what all Wearing Fiji will showcase and I hope to be able to master walking in stilettoes one day. (A girl can try!).