Fiji, Exotic Fashions of Paradise
When a sulu, (wrap around sarong worn since the 19th century) looks this good on a guy you have to wonder why they bother to wear pants. Portulina by Cecilia Fong.
This original pattern by the designer was inspired by ancient South Pacific tapa, a barkcloth made from the inner bark of paper mulberry or breadfruit trees.
Shorts set by Portulina by Cecilia Fong. This Fijian pendant was traditionally made with a boar’s tusk.
In the past, the finest quality tapa was reserved for the tribal chief’s clothing. Now everyone can dress like royalty. Portulina by Cecilia Fong.
Modern little black dress goes tribal with the additon of this light and airy caftan. Portulina by Cecilia Fong.
Chic off-the-shoulder top with coordinating side gathered skirt. Illisoni Narara.
Mandarin collar top with matching shorts. Illisoni Narara.
Understated, modern crop top with coordinated high waisted shorts. The hand printed caftan showcases the artistry of the designer. Illisoni Narara.
Wear this to the beach when you want all eyes on you. One shoulder cut out dress with flattering side slit and button embellishment. By Illisoni Narara.
“My resort wear is a mixture of Pacific Island patterns designed to reflect the people, the land and the ocean.” –Arunesh Sami, designer.
Bandeau top bikini with sheer sulu sarong. Arunesh Sami.
Men’s swimwear. Surfboard ready. Arunesh Sami.
Ruffle skirted 2 piece bathing suit in attractive South Pacific print. Arunesh Sami.
Sophisticated Boho multi-tie monokini by Arunesh Sami.
Sweet mini with tribal barkcloth referenced fabric. Arunesh Sami. Barkcloth was pounded, not woven to create smooth and beautiful fabrics.
Real men wear purple. Zip front top with matching swim trunks. Arunesh Sami.
Lavender monotone pants suit is a celebration of Spring colors. Priyanka Singh.
All white suit with cropped trousers is a bold, confident statement. The contrasting black heels complete the look. Priyanka Singh.
We might not have considered all taupe, including the accessories before, but looking at this ensemble by Priyanka Singh it looks so modern and sleek.
Robin’s egg blue; such an upbeat, summery shade. This monotone suit feels totally fresh. Priyanka Singh.
Sulu sarong set with original pattern fabric by Shane Pickering.
Traditional long gown, beautiful model, dazzling smile. Shane Pickering.
Island cool. Shane Pickering.
Adorable one shoulder romper South Pacific style. Shane Pickering.
Sulu jaba 2 piece set. Lolani Kollection.
Cropped bandeau top and side slit skirt. Lolani Kollection.
Shimmery sheer golden trousers over ocean blue velour bodysuit. Wouldn’t these pants look fabulous as a bikini cover-up on the beach? Kess Baleirara.
Head turning bright orange velour hot pants with coordinating off-the-shoulder shrunken jacket. The gold sheer inset in the sleeves takes this ensemble to the next level. Kess Baleirara.
The designers of Fiji Fashion Week have no fear of color. Brilliant blue velour has a glowing iridescent quality. Ruffled halter and tiered pants. Kess Baleirara.
Wear this for a late afternoon stroll along the beach during a fiery red sunset and guaranteed you’ll be all over Instagram the following day. Mini hot pants and coordinating Renaissance sleeve crop top by Kess Baleirara.
Enjoying the joyful and carefree fashions from Fiji Fashion Week makes us think…this must be why the South Pacific is called Paradise.