Latest update April 24th, 2024 12:59 AM
Nov 02, 2008 News
By Alex Wayne
In the fashion world, one is accustomed to gasps and loud exclamations at elite runway fashion shows. However, jaws practically dropped open and breaths were held in abeyance recently when designer Donna Ramsammy James launched ‘Treveni Experience’ — her 2009 Collection.
Hosted at her private residence at 164 Century Palm Gardens, the show took on the appearance of sexy and downright alluring fashion teasers that showcased designs ranging from subtle and sombre to sexy and breath-taking, before tittering precariously on the edge of becoming daring and revealing. What was noted is that even the very few skimpy pieces displayed were designed in a creative manner, which still left room and comfort for the ‘modest and conservative wearer.’
The show began promptly at 16:30 hrs, right after a stimulating display by the mannequin models, which assumed positions that reminded one of a busy shopping day in a store surrounded by many stunning display mannequins.
As patrons seated in an exotic flower garden sipped fresh fruit juices or liqueurs, models spilled out among them in designs that reeked of ‘fashion fire’ definitely suited for any international runway forum.
The colour blends were perfect and each shade radiated the mood and expression of the stunning models that wore them. Tenth in a lineup of exclusive and elegant ladies and men’s wear, the ‘Treveni Experience’ incorporated the softness of Asia, the depths of Africa, and the colours of the Caribbean.
Models creatively added a little scanting, swaying and sashaying to their routines as they moved from one exciting segment to another. Stunning designs to suit almost any climatic season poured out on stage, the models making every effort to ensure that the audience realize they were getting a taste of ‘the real thing.’ Every piece displayed was made in Guyana.
Each segment took things to a screeching crescendo that evoked loud applause from the audience who, after several years, are still enthralled and mesmerized by the creative and artistic fusion of fabric and colour, and the distinguished designing skills of Guyanese.
Donna is the brainchild behind the annual ‘Shape 2000 Collections’ of which every brilliant introduction is titled with either a sensual, colourful or simply dramatic name.
In 2000 she produced ‘Visions’ before introducing her touching line, ‘A Touch of El Dorado,’ in 2001. ‘Cultural Mosaic’ came to life in 2002, followed by the stirring ‘Calypso in Colour’ in 2003.
Then, in 2004, there was ‘Umoja Sasa’, after which Donna put her creativity to the test and launched the magnificent ‘Celebration’ in 2005. Thereafter came ‘Legacy’ in 2006, followed in 2007 by ‘Focus,’ which was produced during a tense period when Donna’s mom was suffering from a serious ailment.
‘Chimera’ came to light in 2008 and paved the way for ‘The Treveni Experience,’ her 2009 collection.
As some models paraded dreamily around the garden, others exploded into energetic strutting, stretching their charismatic abilities and sophistication to the limits. With well choreographed moves and precise timing, models ensured viewers ‘fell in love’ with the fluid lines, vibrant colours and unusual cuts, all of which maintained the SHAPE tradition of ethnic fusion, art through fashion, traditional cultural styles, dress, motifs, and notions.
‘Chimera,’ the 2008 collection, with its signature lines expressed in natural materials, like jute and calico, had spurred an increased demand, particularly among North American clients.
This, coupled with Donna’s commitment to voluntary training of women in difficult circumstances and of youths in design, grooming and personal enhancement, made 2008 a hectic period indeed.
The Caribbean Festival of Creative Arts (CARIFESTA X) held in Guyana created the opportunity, albeit unintended, for the regrouping of ‘Treveni, a small but celebrated group who performed together at the first Carifesta in 1972 and toured extensively in the Caribbean in the ensuing years.
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