Fiji Fashion Week (FFW) made history at the weekend when it featured the work of an inmate at a fashion week.

Jessica Hill’s collection, Jacisse, was launched at FFW’s Oceans Gala show, which gathered over 300 guests.

Hill made a brief appearance as her work was presented to the 300-plus guests at the European Union Residence in Suva.

The show featured the work of four other designers, including former editor of a lifestyle magazine, Hossana Kabakoro.

The marine theme at the event was in celebration of the International Year of the Oceans.

Glass Runway
The evening show was centred around a glass runaway built over the swimming pool at the European Union Residence.

The Oceans Gala show was the first paid event of the month-long fashion season.

In Italy, inmates are used as runway models, FFW said.

FFW managing director, Ellen Whippy-Knight, said Hill’s efforts took two years of work with the Fiji Corrections Service, and was a testament to the success of the Yellow Ribbon project.

“Jessica comes out with a new set of skills that makes her an international brand when she completes her sentence,” Mrs Whippy-Knight said.

An outfit from Jessica Hill’s collection Jacisse..

International Queries
“There are already several queries from the international market for her brand.”

Fiji Corrections Service Commander, Commissioner Francis Kean, said the exposure would be a life changing experience for female inmates.

“I’m no fashion designer, but she has proven herself to the experts, Ellen and Amanda Harman,” she said.

“The team at Corrections will always be available to support her chase her dreams.

“Thank you Ellen for giving Jessica a shot at life.”

The Corrections Yellow Ribbon Fashion Show 2020 has been deferred because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr Kean said.

“We’re looking forward to hosting such an event again in 2021 – or when this pandemic passes.”

Life After Serving Time
Mrs Whippy-Knight said Hill was reason to believe in life after serving time.

“Designers who featured at FJFW2020 alongside headliner Hupfeld Hoerder were handpicked for one reason only; exceptional technical skill and talent,” Mrs Whippy-Knight said.

Other designers were Priyanka Singh, and Cherish Prasad.

FFW’s final show, Resort Luxe, will be held on November 28 in Nadi.

On November 29, FFW will host its market day in Nadi.

Another outfit from Jessica Hill’s collection Jacisse..

Trade Exhibition
Fiji Fashion Week’s trade exhibition, in Nadi next week, will feature all the show pieces that were presented during the FFW 2020 season.

“Fashion is more than the glitz, glamour and extravagant parties,” FFW said.

“Fashion is about the creative work of designers, who would otherwise be hidden away until an event occurs where their talent emerges.

“It’s about the ordinary people with exceptional skills to show through their work.

“Fiji Fashion showcases pieces that are production-ready, and commercially available.”

Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj