Honiara: London Fashion Week Show Blo Iumi returns bigger, better in 2024

The British High Commission in Honiara hosted its second edition of the popular London Fashion Week Show Blo Iumi on Tuesday 17 September 2024, with fantastic local designers and incredible models showcasing the best in Solomon Design.

The event celebrated 40 years of the London Fashion Show, one of the “Big Four” fashion weeks, alongside Paris, Milan, and New York. It showcases the work of leading British designers and attracts international buyers, media, and fashion enthusiasts. Burberry, present their collections here.

The 40th celebration focuses on uniting creative communities, honouring the diversity of cultures and creativity of the city and positioning London at the forefront of the cultural zeitgeist. It is an occasion to celebrate not just the event itself but everyone that makes it possible.

The Great funded Fashion Show Blo Iumi attracted 7 designers, 55 models including 5 Miss Solomon Islands Pageants 2024 contestants, and over one hundred excited guests.

Speaking at the Fashion Show’s opening ceremony, Deputy High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Emma Jane David said:

Like in Solomon Islands, London’s fashion is deeply intertwined with its diversity. The city’s fashion reflects its multicultural population, drawing on a wide range of influences to create unique and eclectic styles. British fashion is at the forefront of sustainable and ethical fashion movements.

This year’s Fashion Show Blo Iumi included 4 categories featuring a Lavalava wear, Evening wear, Lotu wear and a Contemporary traditional wear. Four judges made the tough decision selecting the best designs and models.

Mrs Hahe Alatala of Hahe Designs emerged the winner, picking up a trophy and a mentoring session with a UK designer. Rosemary Boe of Rosie’s Couture and Wendy Gwaena of WG Designs took second and third places.

Sonia’s Rochenberg of Sons and Daughters Designs, Prudence Beck of Threads Investment, Lava Grossmith of Lava’s Original and Luke Gegeu of EL Designs all received commendations.

The show also featured body art by artists Hamid Ramokasa, Fred Oge, Wilson Kabe, Cassey Hairiu and Emmanuel Manu on five body building athletes, and a performance from Blad P2A and Khazin.