Lao Fashion Week 2016 kicked off on Monday with the launch of a popup store displaying fashion pieces from participating designers to support the Lao Young Designer project.Local and foreign designers are displaying their collections in booths on the ground floor of the Vientiane Center following the official launch.
A red carpet fashion show featuring local models promoting the latest trends and pieces from designers created a colourful start to Lao Fashion Week.
Founder of Lao Fashion Week Ms Pany Saignavongs said the popup store would be displaying until Friday with 20 percent of sales going to support the Lao Young Designer Project.
Men Folder brand owner Mr. Bandid Lassavong said he was supplying 35 pieces, with 32 for men and 3 for women, and would provide one outfit on the final day to be auctioned to support the Lao Young Designer project.
Meanwhile, Asian Development with Disabled Persons Representative Ms Yuki Nakamura said her organisation had brought well known Japanese hair stylist Mr. Suguru Ito, florist Norie and kimono designer Ms Takako to add to the vibrant atmosphere of this year’s event.
Ms Takako has some 40 years experience and this year’s Lao Fashion Week is the first time she has brought her kimonos to Laos.
This year’s event also features an art exhibition to support the young designers.
An official reception party was also held at the French Ambassador’s residence on Monday evening to welcome designers and officials.
At the reception French Ambassador to Laos Ms Claudine Ledoux noted that Lao Young Designer 2015 winner Mr. Billy’ Siamphan Chanthavichith had undertaken an intensive six month fashion design course at ESMOD in Paris, France, and that he was showcasing his collection after graduating. She expected this year’s winner Mr. Viseth Sithilath would also be successful.
She also thanked officials, especially Ms Pany Saignavongs, models, designers and sponsors for supporting Lao Fashion Week.
Source: Vientiane Times
