The British High Commission recently hosted the second edition of the highly anticipated Blo Iumi London Fashion Week show. The event featured a vibrant showcase of Solomon Islands design, celebrating both local talent and the rich cultural tapestry of London fashion.
To mark the 40th anniversary of the iconic London Fashion Show, one of the “big four” fashion weeks alongside Paris, Milan and New York, Blo Iumi highlighted the work of seven talented designers and 55 models, including five contestants from the Miss Solomon Islands 2024 pageant, and attracted over a hundred guests.
The British High Commission recently hosted the Blo Iumi show at London Fashion Week, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the iconic event. Featuring seven designers and 55 models, including Miss Solomon Islands contestants, the show included categories such as Lavalava and Evening wear. Hahe Alatala won first place and other designers received awards.
The show included four categories: Lavalava wear, evening wear, Lotu wear and contemporary traditional wear, the British High Commission in Honiara said in a press release.
Hahe Alatala of Hahe Designs took home the top prize, which included a trophy and a mentoring session with a UK designer. Rosemary Boe of Rosie's Couture and Wendy Gwaena of WG Designs took second and third place respectively.
Praise was also awarded to Sonia Rochenberg of Sons and Daughters Designs, Prudence Beck of Threads Investment, Lava Grossmith of Lava's Original and Luke Gegeu of EL Designs for their impressive contributions.
Deputy High Commissioner for the Solomon Islands, Emma Jane DavidShe spoke at the opening ceremony. “Just like in the Solomon Islands, London’s fashion is deeply intertwined with its diversity. The city’s fashion reflects its multicultural population, drawing on a wide range of influences to create unique and eclectic styles. British fashion is at the forefront of sustainable and ethical fashion movements.”
The show also featured captivating artistic creations by local artists Hamid Ramokasa, Fred Oge, Wilson Kabe, Cassey Hairiu and Emmanuel Manu, who adorned five bodybuilding athletes. Performances by Blad P2A and Khazin further enriched the event.
Fibre2Fashion (HU) Press Desk
