BY JOY OFASIA
THE Fiji fashion scene was in full swing earlier this month from 2 to 3 June, attracting the Pacific’s talented fashion designers and lovers of fashion, especially at the Vodafone Arena in Suva.
The interesting thrill of this year’s Vodafone Fiji Fashion Week was Florence Fineanganofo, who made her mark as a new talented, and emerging fashion designer, who comes from a mixed parentage of the Solomon Islands and Tonga.
According to her biography posted on social media, Florence was as described as a visionary and passionate designer, who ignited a blaze of inspiration, reshaping the very fabric of style coming from the Solomon Islands and Tonga, and has captivated the hearts of fashion fans with her ready-to-wear collections and gowns.
“With her brand Taahine, Florence has captivated the hearts of fashion enthusiasts with her ready-to-wear collections and bespoke gowns. Her inspiring journey and the creative vision behind her designs have nowadays made her mark in Fiji’s fashion industry,” the posted statement said.
“Residing in Fiji with her family, Florence is married to an Indo-Fijian with two children. She has made her mark in the fashion Industry through a journey of dedication, daring risks, and unwavering determination as a true achiever with her different brands of creativity.
“Florence’s fashion career began in 2015 as a hobby which later changed into a passion. When she laid her hands on a sewing machine her husband had purchased. Little did she know that this simple act would ignite her passion for design, sewing, pattern making, and everything related to fashion. Interested in the endless possibilities that fashion offered, Florence explored deep into mastering her craft.
“She is also the driving force behind Taahine, a clothing brand that displays elegance and uniqueness.
“Taahine offers a range of ready-to-wear garments alongside exquisite custom-made gowns and bridal wear. Every piece is exactly crafted in Fiji, showcasing Florence’s commitment to supporting local craftsmanship and promoting the Pacific fashion industry.
“For her 2023 collection, Florence draws inspiration from a bygone era known for its elegance and timeless fashion.
“Florence showcased her latest collection at the Vodafone Arena in Suva as an honor to be part of this celebration of creativity and self-expression,” the statement said.
This year’s annual event also brings together fashion connoisseurs, industry professionals, and enthusiasts from around the world, providing a platform to showcase the best of Fiji’s fashion talent.
A total of 24 designers from Fiji, Australia, and New Caledonia have showcased a diverse clothing collection at this year’s Vodafone Fiji Fashion Week. The designers were also being judged by fashion educator Nicholas Huxley, Creative Designer and Director of Fijian fashion brand 8 Mountains Moira Solvalu, and Jon Apted.
The winners will be announced next month.
