2TFW – Trinidad Tobago Fashion Week launches its 2016 Programme

Trinidad Tobago Fashion Week (2TFW) launched its 2016 programme at the Kaiso Blues Café, on Monday 2 May 2016. Sponsors, Industry stakeholders and Fashion enthusiasts filled the Woodford Street, Port of Spain venue in anticipation of another epic year of modern fashion from the 2TFW team. “This year we are planning to break the mould with regards to fashion and commerce” said Designers United Stores (DUS) Director, Ashely Christmas. “We intend to showcase to the world what Caribbean fashion is about. What we can do here in Trinidad and Tobago is insurmountable and it’s time for the world to see- it’s time to focus on the business of fashion.” Designers United Stores (DUS) is a non-profit organisation that has produced annual fashion programs for the past 5 years – starting from Tobago in 2010 with its 4-year production of Tobago Fashion Weekend (TFW) to its rebranded platform Trinidad Tobago Fashion Week (2TFW). DUS has devised a comprehensive program, which is a fusion of business development and creative expression. Featuring the latest trends, emerging designers and influencers within the fashion industry, the program also includes knowledge-sharing and development for industry stakeholders through its 2TFW Workshops. “We continue to promote education in the industry by providing a forum for knowledge sharing and talent enhancement” Ashley stated. “Our 2016 2TFW Workshops will have local and international presenters and will cover a wide variety of relevant topics that have impact on the modern fashion industry e.g. digital media, branding, production, marketing fashion and much more.” Head of Corporate Communications at RBC Caribbean Banking, Nicole Duke-Westfield spoke on RBC’s sponsorship of the 2TFW Workshops scheduled for 16 and 17 May, 2016 ,“RBC recognizes that given the economic environment, now is a good time to focus on developing the fashion industry and resourcing it for greater efficiency” she stated. Also present at the media launch was Candice Baccus of Simply Runway Clothing store in Grand Bazaar. Simply Runway will sponsor the first “Designer, Choice Award” where one lucky winner will have the opportunity to showcase for one month at Simply Runway. The winner will be announced at the 2TFW Runway Show on Sunday 22 May, 2016. May is definitely the month of fashion. 2TFW will also house a Designer Showroom at The Parkade in Port of Spain for the entire month of May. This Showroom aptly called “1-4-All” will showcase designers and their fashion lines and will allow patrons to view and purchase. “This showroom will support the active engagement between retailers and designers, between the consumer and designer. This is big- it’s a step forward in the right direction in the act of commerce and fashion,” noted Ashley. 2TFW will officially launch its fashion events on Saturday 14 May at Chaquacabana Chaguaramas and will host its Runway Shows the weekend of the 20 to 22 May, 2016. Starting with “Fashion on the Beach” in Tobago on Friday 20 May, to the “Piarco Fashion Party” on Saturday 21 May and ending the week of fashion events with a live televised broadcast on CNC3 on Sunday 22 May at Chaquacabana. Over 23 designers will gather to showcase over 80 pieces throughout the weekend’s events. “It was imperative that after six years of existence, we take this fashion event and the associated programmes into the international spotlight and ensure that we harness the brand visibility and empowerment required to further develop our industry’s potential. The time is now.” stated Ashley. For more information on 2TFW – Trinidad Tobago Fashion Week, call 1868-293-3960 or 1868-718-4191 or visit www.2tfw.com , #simplesilhouettes or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @2tfwshow