KUALA LUMPUR: Strong support from the corporate sector was evident as over 300 invited guests from various business circles turned up for a cocktail-cum-fashion show at KL Fashion Week 2003.
Corporate figures, including those from the fashion, advertising, telecommunications, food and beverages, and media industries, attended the reception themed “When Night Falls”.
The cocktail was followed by a fashion parade by local designers Tom Abang Saufi, Melinda Looi, Rizalman Ibrahim and Bernard Chandran.
L'Oreal Malaysia Sdn Bhd managing director Alvin Michael Hew said the event succeeded in creating excitement among people, adding that even those outside the fashion and beauty industry were talking about it.
“The series of fashion shows have proven that Malaysian designers are truly talented.
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FASHION EXTRAVAGANZA: Models displaying a collection of clothes befitting the themes shcking, revealing, opulent and whimsiccal. |
“The event is heading in the right direction with the holding of one show after another. It is about presenting fashion, models and creativity directly to the public.
“We are slowly building the awareness and lifting the standard of appreciation,” he said.
Sistem Televisyen Malaysia Berhad corporate communications general manager Alia HM Jally said she enjoyed the show, singling out designer Tom Abang Saufi's ability to transform Malaysian-heritage sarongs into trendy, sexy and sensual fashion items without being over-revealing.
As emcee Praevitriana Yuliawiratman announced the presentation of first of the four designers' collections, psychedelic motifs were formed on the white backdrop under startling lighting effects.
A stunning red figure emerged with a glittering belt, a creation of Sarawakian designer Tom Abang Saufi who is known for her speciality designs in sarong and tie-around costumes.
Looi's feminine collection was in various shades of brown interlined with contrasting blue at times.
Her sheer, flowing items were given the luxury look with intricate sequins placed strategically to cover essential parts of the body.
Rizalman's collection was shocking and eerie as he drew inspiration from the agony of war.
The last designer on stage was Bernard Chandran who presented a collection that was funky with the designs of his motives drawn mainly from traditional sarong prints.
Among the invited guests were Securities Commission chairman Datuk Ali Abdul Kadir, Fuji Film senior executive director Paul Ho, Tan Chong Motor Assemblies Sdn Bhd managing director Tan Boon Pun, Bank Negara deputy governor Ooi Sang Kuang and Tan Sri Michael Chen.
Star Publications (M) Bhd managing director Datuk Steven Tan and Hew later went on stage to congratulate the designers and models.