Local fashion designer Tanya Whiteside has expanded into the commercial sector by opening a fashion showcase in Suva, as reported by The Fiji Times on November 12, 1992.
The report highlights Ms. Whiteside, one of the South Pacific’s most talented young couturiers, and her husband and business partner, Robert Gho. They will utilize the showcase to retail her designer collection.
This fashion outlet is reportedly the first of its kind in the South Pacific.
“The boutique represents all the elements Robert and I personally desire in a retail outlet— a cool, comfortable, and unhurried atmosphere, soft relaxing background music, pleasant, experienced sales service and staff, and a top-quality product,” the article mentions.
“We want our customers to experience enjoyment, satisfaction, and a sense of fulfillment when they purchase Tanya Whiteside products.”
A notable feature of the new Tanya Whiteside outlet is the personal attention from the designer herself. Although she has trained two assistants to attend to customer needs, Ms. Whiteside will be available in the boutique for several hours each day to offer advice and assistance.
Mr. Gho remarked that this endeavor marks a new phase in their retail enterprise, Tanya Whiteside Ltd (TW Ltd), which was established in 1987. Since beginning operations in early 1988, TW Ltd has mainly focused on designing and exporting semi-exclusive leisurewear to markets in Australia, the United States, and New Zealand.
However, increasing local demand for exclusive Tanya Whiteside items highlighted the need for a local outlet. “Our Suva shop is that gutsy step in faith that many business people have to take at some stage in their careers. For Tanya and me, that time is now,” he said.
He added, “Having the boutique allows us to control our own merchandise and retail our exclusive items in the way we feel is best. Tanya has a unique gift as a fashion designer and artist, and promoting her items requires special attention.”
The article notes that Ms. Whiteside has recently been able to dedicate more time to the artistic aspects of her designs.
“In the pieces displayed in the new boutique, customers will find the real me. Designing for the local market offers greater freedom and fun in color and design combinations. Creating simple, versatile, comfortable, and enjoyable styles is a joyful challenge for me.”
Back in late 1977, Ms. Whiteside and Mr. Gho decided to enter their business proposal for fashion designing and marketing in the first-ever Fiji Development Bank/Westpac Banking Corporation-sponsored Start Your Own Business Competition. Winning first place, they used the prize money to launch their business.
“Fashion is an extremely difficult market to enter. We managed to secure orders from importers in New Zealand, Denmark, and New Caledonia. Robert and I plan to pursue international opportunities, but our new Suva venture has provided a new focus for our business and boosted our confidence in ourselves and our country.”