Powell steals the show at FJFW

Emerging designer Andrew Powell made the Fiji Fashion Week 2012 his own scooping the Emerging Designer Award as well as the Overall Designer Award edging the other 57 designers including 16 established designers while at it.

Powell’s garments showcased on the final day of the 3-day FJFW at the Vodafone Arena today featured bikinis, summer dresses and evening gowns.

The other winner on the night was 14-year-old Yat Sen Secondary School student Kelly Ann Narelle Harman who was named the Best Model of the Year.

For their efforts, Powell and Harman earned invitations to the Hong Kong Fashion show in May next year.

FJFW managing director, Ellen Whippy was impressed with the different styles and colours each designer showcased in the show.

“It has indeed been a hectic few days but a fruitful one as well as Fiji had witnessed some amazing talent,” Whippy said.

Chief guest for the night, Minister for Women, Social Welfare and Poverty Alleviation Dr Jiko Luveni described the show as inspirational and acknowledged Whippy and her team as well as the models and designers who participated for a successful show.

 “FJFW shows professionalism in clothing and evening models walking and that is what Fiji’s fashion industry needs to grow,” Dr Luveni added.

And in a great ending to the 3-day event, major sponsors MHCC reaffirmed their support to the show with the announcement of sponsorship for 2013 till 2016.

An emotional Whippy was touched by gesture saying MHCC’s announcement is a major boost to Fiji’s growing fashion industry as it will allow local and international designers to participate and show their talent.

“Thanks to MHCC, the Fiji Fashion Week is here to stay.”

By Indrani Krishna