As we settle into post fashion month, we can reflect on all the experiences, shows, parties, but specifically all the coming innovative designs and trends approaching for the months to follow. What you may not see coming however is a sort of new kid on the block that may not have presented itself in the regular fashion week calendar but recently showed up at mega fashion trade show, Coterie.
Indonesia Fashion Forward is an initiative by Jakarta Fashion week designed to introduce and accelerate growth to the global markets, now more specifically in the United States. The program is designed to nurture these talents, giving them all the possible resources to obtain success, combining mentorship, industry exposure, critical business education and more. They are provided with the tools and support systems, including buyers, media, government support, and international organizations to navigate these new markets and have a fair shot in representing themselves in the highly competitive fashion industry.
As many do already know, Indonesia is already a producer for many of the brands we already consume regularly, a high margin of this production dedicated to athletic-wear. You may also know about their rich cultural history in textile production.
However what you may not know is how deep these stories and traditions lie, a generational passing down of intricate systems, and each region of their country with their own distinct beautiful methods. Speaking with natives of Indonesia at the media luncheon introducing many of these designers, you can easily spot what region a textile or pattern is from simply based on looking at it and the weaving or techniques used. Fuguku is one brand merging traditional Indonesian techniques with modern designs. The use of Indonesian jumputan – the technique of tying fabric widely known in Sumatra and Central Java – typically used for creating patterns, is a focal point in creating the modern and chic designs.
Baha Gia, is another brand being introduced. The designer travels to different regions of the country for inspiration and expresses how each of our dresses are a celebration of Indonesia’s vibrant heritage, brought to life through meticulous designs and colorful prints that tell stories of the nation’s diverse traditions and landscapes.
The designs from both of these brands and beyond have brought something special to the table and the conversation of fashion. I am excited to see what is in store for them and the other emerging Indonesian brands.
