Runway Report: Third Annual World Island Fashion Week 2010

Day one belonged to Bahamian talent David Rolle, who debuted his collection to a packed room of over 200 attendees including international press and buyers. The twenty-three year old designer had a distinct point of view that was fresh, raw and unlike anything presented on the IWFW catwalk. The look of the collection was inspired by a reaction to war and global oppression. Models conveyed this message of angst and were constrained by handcuffs. Each look was accessorized with army boots. "I can't understand why we live in a world caught-up by terror," said Rolle backstage with the maturity of a seasoned designer. "This collection for me was about sending out message that war can't be tolerated." A definite cohesiveness in his designs clearly demonstrated he is an upcoming talent to watch.

Rolle prepared for his debut at the IWFW by volunteering with the organization for the past two seasons. He gained firsthand experience in what it takes to produce a standout collection. "I never went to school for fashion design. I love to sew," shared Rolle, who has a strong eco-friendly foundation and sourced a majority of the fabric used in the collection from secondhand shops and thrift stores. "I'm hoping by showing my talent at the IWFW that this will lead to further nurturing and growth as a designer."

Islands of the World Fashion Week hopes to promote cultural diversity and encourage linkages among islands in the development and growth of their respective fashion industries. This internationally-recognized event showcases the quality of "island life-style" through innovative designs and products and the encouragement and preservation of traditional methods or techniques in fashion.