The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

THE two Bahamian designers who dominated the regional fashion competition “Mission Catwalk” were celebrated at a special victory event on Sunday.

Hosted by Mario’s Bowling and Family Entertainment Palace, the event honoured Theodore Elyett and David Rolle, the winner and first runner-up of the reality TV show’s third season.

The winning collections were on display for fashion. Theodore’s line will soon head East to debut at London Fashion Week.

“It’s not everyday you hear about local fashion designers making it big like this. I’ve been following both of the designers during the show and they deserve their shine,” said Andrea, a fan who attended the event.

Jessica, also a fan said: “The work on the runway was just fabulous in every sense of the word. I hope to one day own one or two of the pieces from each designer.”

“They travelled out of the country and made a name for themselves. Congrats and kudos goes to Theo for coming back as number one, but they both did well,” said Jessica.

Theodore competed against David and Renardo Lloyd of Jamaica in the final runway showdown held at Trident Castel in Port Antonio, Jamaica, last month. Each finalist designed a collection of 12 pieces over a three-month period. Theodore’s “ ello London” collection wowed the audience and the judges alike. He said the collection was heavily inspired by the culture and street fashion of London.

“From the bearskin hats worn by the Royal Footmen, to London’s cobblestone streets, to strong influences from iconic British actress and model Twiggy, the pre-fall collection featured some of the industry’s hottest trends including Pantone’s colour for 2013, emerald green,” said Theodore.

Throughout the 11-week series, Theodore dominated the competition. He won the first design challenge with his African print summer dress, becoming the first designer to have his winning piece retail at Lee’s Fifth Avenue in Kingston, Jamaica. The design became a favourite, selling more than half a dozen pieces and was photographed being worn by Bernadette Christie, wife of Prime Minister Perry Christie.

As the winner of Mission Catwalk Season 3, Theodore will show his collection at London Fashion Week in February.
He will also receive $5,000 to start a clothing line, industrial sewing equipment, a Samsung Galaxy Note II, a contract to sell his designs at Lee’s Fifth Avenue, a fashion editorial in 6 Carlos Magazine and a scholarship to pursue a fashion programme at London College Of Fashion.

Lisa Humes of Mario’s Bowling said through the Bahamian designer’s efforts, the Bahamas will be represented on one of the ultimate fashion stages during London Fashion Week.

“On Sunday all the seating was filled to capacity. The collections were very nice to see and we had amazing giveaways,” said Ms Humes.