Fiji’s fashion industry is poised for greater heights if supported and nurtured well.

Household brands of Fijian Made and Fijian Designed clothing is top choice for local and overseas consumers.

Vibrant colours and trendy designs are top sellers.

A look at the recent shop openings by some of our own top designers is proof of this small but growing industry.

Samson Lee Boutique opened last month. Haus of Koila is another household name creating waves in the market. They also opened an outlet earlier this year.

A walk into Palm Court in downtown Suva and you’ll think you’re in fashion central. The Court houses PIA (Pacific Island Arts), Aladdin’s Cave, 8 mountains and RFx Boutique.

Fashion Council of Fiji chairman Faraz Ali said such fashion businesses is an illustration of a thriving industry on the cusp of something greater.

“Indeed the ongoing success of Treehouse Boutique’s production facility is testament to the strength of production needs for thriving fashion businesses and a market that is not only interested in Fijian Made but also Fijian Designed.”

Challenges

But like any industry, there are challenges.

Mr Ali pointed out the shortage of production facilities.

“This problem will only escalate as fashion businesses grow in line with demand for Fijian designer products.

“Printing facilities are also lacking with long time screen printers Wasa Ni Tadra unable to meet the demand from the designers responding to the market, which is hungry for local prints.”

Mr Ali said some designers were already in the process of investing in their own facilities.

Perhaps this is a business opportunity for members of the Textile, Clothing and Footwear council.

Moving Forward

Mr Ali also confirmed that they are still in discussions with Fiji Fashion Week but will proceed with the fashion week as planned in May next year.

“We cannot confirm whether the Fiji Fashion Council  or any other organisation will take charge of the event.

“At the moment there are various complications and we are just trying to figure out the structure of the ownership in order to ensure the longevity of Fiji Fashion Week,” Mr Ali said.

Regional Influence

Since hitting the ANZ Fashion ATMs here earlier this year, the initiative has also taken off in Samoa.

Textile designs of Samson Lee, Robert Kennedy, Moira Solvalu, Ilai Jikoiono, Hupfield Hoerder and Epeli Tuibeqa cover ATM’s across ANZ’s most visible Fijian locations.