BY MAVIS NISHIMURA PODOKOLO
THE Association of Solomon Islands in Creative Fashion (ASICF) has created a platform for local established designers and emerging designers to use to boost the country’s economy.
In its latest initiative, the weeklong Solomon Fashion Week, diverse fashion designs were displayed as the programme culminated in a fashion show over the weekend.
The show was held at the Coral Sea Resort and Casino in Honiara.
Solomon Islands young talented models showcased local established designs and emerging designers’ products.
The different attires unveiled include beachwear, sarong and casual wear to evening wear.
Justina Radclyffe president of ASICF said the purpose of hosting the event is to prepare local designers before entering overseas fashion shows.
Speaking in light of the event 2018 Solomon Fashion Week guest speaker Mrs Failepou Penni Director of the Pacific International runway said the fashion industry is a billion-dollar business.
Penni says it is a high time Solomon Islands government and corporate businesses support local designers.
She adds, fashion also plays a huge part in the tourism sector through artefacts and fashion. This is in terms of generating more income in the workforce.
“Therefore we need to embrace fashion and take it seriously,” Penni said.
The theme for this year’s fashion week reads “Paradise Glamour”.
Local designer participants include Wendlyn Wale, Julie Pelomo, Aukeni Mamau, Ellani Maepio, Frances Do’oro and Maylen Bae.
Emerging designers are students from King Georg Sixth School, St John’s school and Mbokona School.
Government.
