Photo: Designer Anthony Redding is flanked by (from left) business owner Marisa Albert, Miss T&T World 2012 Athaliah Samuel, reigning Miss T&T Universe Avionne Mark and Top Ten finalist of Miss T&T Universe 2012, Mary Esdelle.

Tobago Fashion Weekend kicked off what many have dubbed “Fashion Season” in this region with a glamourous cocktail launch at La Cantina Restaurant on Victoria Avenue, Port of Spain, Trinidad, on Monday evening. With this year’s theme “Cazak, Frock & Suspenders” in the spotlight, attendees were treated to a festive evening of mingling, which featured welcoming remarks from TFW/Designer United Stores Director, Aisha Keens Dumas- Smith & a congratulatory speech from Mario Romany, Business Directorate of the Ministry of Trade and Industry.  

Proceedings were then rounded off with a note of thanks from Director of the Tobago Fashion Weekend Organization, Mr. Ashley Christmas, who praised the hard work of his team and the overall commitment to the industry’s growth, demonstrated by his peers. He also made honourable mention of the continued support from such organizations as the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) & the Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Service Industries (TTCSI). 

Along with performances from local stars Collin Duranty, Akilah Riley & Ziggy Ranking, the specially-invited guests were also treated to an exclusive preview of designs from a host of talented designers, including: 

Zadd & Eastman
Daww Creations
Shaun Griffith-Perez
Heather Jones
Claudia Pegus
Wadada Movement
Dexter Jennings
Caribbean Academy of Fashion and Design/UTT
Yesa Designs
Khrystal Fashions 

May is officially Fashion Month in the Republic, and designers, international media, global celebrities and fashion enthusiasts from across the globe are expected to flock to the sister isle for the weekend of May 17-19 2013. With one model casting session already completed in Trinidad, another expected on April 20th and a TFW Pop-Up Event & the Tobago Launch happening in early May, there is a spirit of excitement in the fashion industry for what is to come over the next month!  

Tobago Fashion Weekend is certainly ready to start the season off the right way!