So I'm obviously still trolling the internet for as much Fashion Week information as I can possibly find (I am determined to recreate the experience vicariously). I came across one article in particular that made me feel as if I was in the Hyatt myself, hating on the models with everybody else (j/k...kinda). I contacted the journalist, Hannah Greenidge, whose articles have been published in some of the Trinidad's most popular daily periodicals, to request the unedited version of the article to post to SUTS. Look out for more of her work soon in the hottest Caribbean fashion and lifestyle periodicals.
FWTT - The Opening Night
The Hyatt Regency Trinidad was abuzz with fashion action recently, as local and regional designers made a statement through their ingenuity. The event was Fashion Week Trinidad and Tobago, and it was held from May 29 - June 2, 2009. The message conveyed through the artistry of these designers was that the fashion of our region is a force to be reckoned with and our designers are stepping forth boldly to take our Caribbean face to the world, with concern for the environment at the same time. One of the most pleasing aspects of the lines presented was every designer's unapologetic attitude towards being Caribbean. There was no apology for our colours, our shapes and our vibe, bearing in mind that all of these entities are open to each designer's unique interpretation.
The main team of organizers for the event included Dianne Hunte of Radical Designs, Richard Young, Rosemary Stone and Maria Farrell. On Friday May 29th, Fashion Week opened with the runway set on fire. Some of the sponsors on board had booths set up at the event. The companies represented were b mobile, UTT (the Fashion Design Programme), TRESemme and Optique eyewear. Each night, the Grand Ballroom of the Hyatt came alive with a theme that tied into the main concept of 'Live Green'. The opening night was titled 'Breaking Ground'. The design houses featured that night included Heather Jones Designs Limited featuring Quel Que Chose by Reggie Matthews, DLR 'D' by Dominique La Roche, Fariiworld by Richard Hope, Michael's Vogue Designs by Michael Raghunanan, Sonia Mack, Millhouse Menswear by Gregory and Coline Mills, Brown Sugar by Judith Rawlins and CPFS (Claudia Pegus Frederick Street).
All of the collections were spectacular with some key pieces blowing away the audience such as Sonia Mack's wedding gown worn by former Miss World contestant Gabrielle Walcott. The dress gave a complimenting close fit on the top and a grand skirt at the bottom with the material overlapping in U-shapes delivering a fairy tale feel.
In terms of presentation, kudos must be given to Millhouse Menswear and CPFS. The Millhouse collection for 2009 was named 'Southern Comfort'. There was immediate presence as the first model emerged. The models came out with a slow crawl to the timeless sound of James Brown's 'It's a Man's World'. For those guys who are still skeptical about the slim fit style of pants, I recommend that you consult Millhouse Menswear to see how it's done. The designers used locally sourced wools, dupioni silks and Sea Island cotton in mainly black and white to dress the Caribbean man. In speaking with Coline Mills after the show she described the line as depicting the Mavericks of today forging ahead, despite the economic climate, the Caribbean man has a drive to move forward. Troy Seetai, one of the models in the show, remarked that he had the most fun with the Millhouse collection. He felt as though the music, the clothes, everything was perfectly in sync.
Designer Claudia Pegus debuted her collection 'Trapped' with a dramatic entrance onto the runway. To that catchy tune 'That's Not My Name' by 'The Ting Tings', models stepped out wearing elaborate gold masks. This was Claudia's ready to wear presentation for Fashion Week and there were some very interesting shapes and cuts. In particular, a funky snakeskin jacket and tube top, made for only those who could handle it. One could not help but notice the dominance of strings in the collection. In speaking with the designer after the show, she explained that inspiration came from her personal experiences this year and the trapped feeling that crime in our country has placed on the people. Nigel Celestine handled the production of Claudia's presentation.
For every night of Fashion Week there was a full house. There were many local supporters as well as curious foreigners. Against the bright green b mobile backdrop I spotted America's Next Top Model Cycle 11 winner, McKey. With her captivating height she was hard to miss as she posed for pictures in a beautiful blue design by Heather Jones. I was given an opportunity to speak with the international model who said that she was thoroughly enjoying Trinidad. With her soft, pleasant smile she exclaimed that she loved the weather and she admired the cool, relaxed vibe of the Caribbean models in the show who were able to keep a professional composure even in the height of anxiety backstage. This was her first time visiting Trinidad and she came with her mom to be a part of the Trinidad Fashion Week experience. She noted that there were designs from the show that could make a solid mark on the international Fashion stage.
Local support included former Tourism Minister Howard Chin Lee, our West Indies Cricket Star Brian Lara and former Government Minister Joan Yuille Williams. Also present was Gary Hunt Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs. As he was exiting the ballroom, I asked him what he thought about the show and his response was what I think to be the best summation of the opening night: "We are evolving."
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