There is a new digital fashion lookbook on the block that features 100% Bajan designers thanks to the National Cultural Foundation (NCF).
The WE166: Fashion Arts Edition officially launched last Thursday, September 30, across NCF’s digital platforms; showcasing trendy, stylish and affordable options from some of the most creative minds on the local fashion scene with each piece reflecting the designer’s unique expression.
In light of the many challenges and restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the NCF felt the need to ensure that local cultural provocateurs in fashion continue creating, and to help provide a platform for them to be able to monetise their art.
Given the present strain on the economic landscape, the retail sector has seen fewer impulse purchases and more discerning shopping – a blow to several fashion houses.
Local designers have since eagerly seized the opportunity to showcase their work via online platforms, exposing their creativity to massive audiences at little to no advertising cost.
The lookbook, which can be viewed on the NCF’s website, has amazing editorial content and a collection of beautiful pieces that can be bought instantly or custom designs can be requested.
Producer of the publication, NCF’s Marketing Officer, Ashley Dyall, said the Foundation is thrilled with how the project blossomed and was eager to plant more seeds to assist with the growth of the sector. She explained why the project was important to the NCF.
“The NCF is well aware that there is a need now more than ever to invest in ourselves as Barbadians. We know that our designers are actively engaged in self-promotion. However, there is also an incredible strength to be found in partnership and collaboration. The lookbook essentially brings together, in one location, multiple pieces from different designers to create a cohesive look.”
Ms. Dyall invited all Barbadians to take a look; support their own and share it with others. “To those out there who are ready, willing and excited to support our local fashion industry, there are links provided so that when you are browsing through WE166 and you find something you’ve fallen in love with, you can reach out directly,” she said.
WE166 features the creations of designers: Sherlai Stevenson, Alyssa Goddard, Melanie Renee Thorpe, Kiah Proute, Dominique Wilkinson, Erica Walker, Rotchelle Parris, Christian Gibbs, Zhane Padmore, Jamar Odwin & Daniel Nicholas, Sunset Sealy, Lee-ann Ramsay, Blessing Olaniyi and Tia Olton. At the back of our lookbook, there is also information on the featured designers as well as their contact details.
Along with the designers, a creative team conjured the concept for the look and content for the digital edition. The team consisted of: creative director and stylist Zahra Spencer; design, layout & cover Danielle Archer; sketch artist Shara Spencer; motion graphic artist Mario Porter, and contributors, NCF’s Dyall and Zahra Spencer.
This is the NCF’s second edition of WE166. The first catalogue was done last year as a Christmas edition focused on Visual Arts.