VANCOUVER FASHION WEEK CUT FROM A DIFFERENT CLOTH
Evolving event gives local designers unparalleled access to an international audience
These days, you don’t have to jet off to New York, Paris or Milan in order to catch a runway fashion show.
Jamal Abdourahman, the founder of Vancouver Fashion Week, has done his best to make sure of that. For the past 30 seasons, Abdourahman and his team have worked to put together a seasonal showcase of local and international designers that has grown considerably over the years.
Abdourahman took a break from the pre-show frenzy in order to talk VFW origins, influence and what’s next.
Q When and why did you first start Vancouver Fashion Week?
A I was a nightclub promoter. It was just an accident at that time. I never really liked the club scene, but I love dancing and music. That’s why I threw parties. That’s what got me involved. It started out with one friend of mine who I knew that was a promoter. He had a fashion show in his club. And I thought, I should do this to promote — and it grew from there. Since I love dancing, I did the choreographing of the fashion shows to begin with. These days we leave it to the professionals. It is my love for dance, and the creativity behind it that piqued my interest.
Q How has it changed and grown since then?
A There definitely has been a big change in the market. The current market has more access to fashion, which means it is easier to contribute and distribute. Another more obvious change over the last 30 seasons would be the visual aspect; many fashions have come and gone in the last 17 years. Fashion consumers nowadays have more access to local designer items. They also buy more goods from local designers because they want exclusivity, and uniqueness in their purchase.
Q What does the event represent to the local fashion industry, specifically?
A VFW is one of the biggest established platforms on an international level, where local designers can have easier access in showcasing and networking with other people in the industry. Q What’s new for this season?
A The team we have now is going to make this season’s show different; each season we have our core team plus a huge team backing them up. It’s these fresh eyes and minds that make each season different. Kids Fashion Week is growing. Our season show is growing. Plus, those young designers that started out at VFW five years ago are growing as well and they are becoming mentors to other designers. On top of that, more local designers are showing this season. We have 39 designers from Canada this year and that is exciting.
Q What is one thing people may be surprised to find out about VFW?
A We have a huge global media coverage that we receive, the number of shows a week that we present, and the increase of numbers in local designers with so much potential who will be showcasing this year.
Q What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in building this event?
A Managing myself is the main struggle. But if I am able to do this, everything else is a walk in the park. Some days you are full of inspiration and there are also days when it’s lacking. When you feel stuck or lost, the pressure can creep up. Though it’s not as intense nowadays compared to 10 years ago. Now I have a great team of support every season. I believe that for us to stay on top, I really have to push myself and them. It’s a big team. It’s a big show and a big responsibility we have for one another. Q Any runway shows you’re most excited about this season?
A The designers for this season are great and very creative. Each season I try not to see their new collections, I like to be as surprised as our guests! I talk to them regularly however and by conversing with them, I am able to see where their heads are at and share in their excitement.
Q Lastly, what’s next for you?
A I am looking forward to Tokyo this year, New York in 2018, and London in 2019. aharris@postmedia.com