Fashion steams ahead

The fashion industry is certainly looking strong these days when one looks at the variety of shows in different venues around Jakarta. It seems to be one of the only areas of development (that I can see) that bears much significance in complimenting the beginning of the millennium.

At a striking fast rate, designers are producing a vast variety of clothing designs, fabrics and prints in a never ending supply of ideas. This, in my book, puts Indonesia up there with the leaders in fashion. I would even be brave enough to say that Jakarta and Bali could give Paris a run for its money after having seen some of the "Look Fashion" programs on TV.

What I find rather intriguing to point out, is that the current economic and political situation in Indonesia seems far from marring to the continual growth and aggressiveness of the fashion and modeling industry.

As an artist-cum-designer myself and having grown up in a family of artists and entertainers, I've always shared an interest in various arts, in one form or another. Obviously, if this is so, questions do arise. My query is this: "Why does such a creative, colorful and exciting industry which supplies a wonderful array of models (sometimes) in captive settings with selectively chosen mood music always have their models holding cold, expressionless faces?

It seems to be the trend in Paris to hold a cold, expressionless face (not to mention that underwear is kept to a minimum, to say the least). However, I feel that a model's job is to complement the overall image and feeling of the garment she wears through her body language and facial expression. That then multiplies the attractive appeal of the garment, and its usage. I am inclined to believe that sometimes a cold expressionless face could actually stir people away from its appeal. A hint of a smile or seductive sparkle in one's eye could make all the difference in the world to sell a marketable product (without sexual connotations of course).

I am sure if the fashion industry was rated as a sport, Indonesia would be well on its way to winning a medal for its country. But let's put some warmth in their expressions.

C. PARRY

Jakarta