Wearing Fiji’s inaugural virtual auction raised more money than expected, says Samson Lee
Wearing Fiji’s inaugural online charity auction raised $6000, a sum which doubled the organisers expectations.
The proceeds will go towards feeding 200 families.
Wearing Fiji is a fashion project which advocates for fashion mentoring and education.
It’s co-owners are Samson Lee and Naisau Tuidraki.
Designers who contributed to the auction included Hupfeld Hoerder, Robert Verebasagam Temesia Tuicaumia, Atelaite Daunibau, Natalia Larsen, Andrew Powell and Samson Lee Fiji.
Other designers were Tefui creator Renee Wasile and Star Jewels mompreneur Anastacia Georgiu.
Member of Parliament Lynda Tabuya and her family showcased the designs during the charity auction.
The biggest surprise was Samson Lee Fiji’s Waterlily Maxi Dress which was auctioned for $1500.
Mr Lee said he did not expect to have raised so much money from the first show as it was a testing ground.
“I now have Lynda Tabuya telling me she’s received a host of enquiries from the public over the screening of the next show,” he said.
Mr Lee said he was motivated to carry out the virtual auction show after witnessing social media posts that called for donations to needy families.
“I wanted to work with Lynda because she’s a strong supporter of locally made products, and she’s been visual in giving out food packs where it is most needed,” he said.
“I was expecting the auction to raise $3000.
“At one point, there were over 1000 users tuned in.”
He said he did not expect the Waterlily Laxi Dress to fetch more than $1000.
The dress was sewn from Mr Lee’s Kui printed fabric, and was part of his Waterlily Collection which was to have featured at Wearing Fiji’s May 1 show.
“The theme of my design this year was is in honour of Adi Cakobau School, and women in power,” he said. “It just so happened that Lynda went to ACS too.”
Ms Tabuya said Wearing Fiji fashion online charity auction was a huge success, where 11 outfits and a jewellery set raised $5665.