Local fashion designer Tanya Whiteside has stepped further into the commercial world by unveiling her fashion showcase in Suva, as reported by The Fiji Times on November 12, 1992.
The article highlighted that Ms. Whiteside, one of the South Pacific’s most talented young couturiers, together with her business partner and husband, Robert Gho, will use this showcase to retail Ms. Whiteside’s designer collection.
This fashion outlet is the first of its kind in the South Pacific.
“The boutique is essentially an embodiment of everything Robert and I desire in a retail outlet — a cool, comfortable, and relaxed atmosphere, soft background music, pleasant, experienced sales service and staff, and top-quality products,” the article stated.
“We want our customers to experience enjoyment, satisfaction, and a sense of fulfillment when they purchase Tanya Whiteside designs.”
A unique feature of the new Tanya Whiteside outlet is the personal attention customers will receive from the designer herself.
While she has two trained assistants to cater to customers’ needs, Ms. Whiteside will also be available in the boutique for several hours each day to offer advice and assist customers.
Mr. Gho mentioned that this venture represents a new phase in their retailing enterprise, Tanya Whiteside Ltd (TW Ltd), which they established in 1987.
Since starting operations in early 1988, TW Ltd has primarily focused on designing and exporting semi-exclusive leisurewear to Australia, the United States, and New Zealand.
However, increasing local demand for exclusive Tanya Whiteside items has highlighted the need for a dedicated outlet catering to local customers wishing to buy the TW label. “Our Suva shop is a gutsy leap of faith that businesspeople often have to take at some point in their careers. For Tanya and me, that time is now,” he said.
“Having the boutique allows us to control our merchandise and retail our exclusive items in the way we deem best.
“Tanya possesses a unique talent as a fashion designer and artist, and promoting and retailing her items require special attention.”
The article also noted that recently, Ms. Whiteside has been able to focus more on the artistic aspects of her designs.
“In the pieces on display in the new boutique, customers will find the real me.”
“Because I am not designing for export, where market tastes and trends can influence a collection, there’s a greater sense of freedom and fun in the color and design combinations of the garments on sale.”
“Designing for simplicity of style, versatility, comfort, and enjoyment is a joyful challenge for me.”
Back in late 1977, Ms. Whiteside and Mr. Gho had entered their business proposal for fashion designing and marketing in the first-ever Fiji Development Bank/Westpac Banking Corporation-sponsored Start Your Own Business Competition.
They won first place and used the prize money to launch their fledgling business.
“Fashion is an extremely difficult market to break into. We managed to secure orders from individual importers from New Zealand, Denmark, and New Caledonia.”
“Robert and I plan to continue pursuing international opportunities, but our new venture in Suva has given us renewed focus in our business enterprise. It has boosted our confidence not only in ourselves but also in our country.”