Whenever we think of a 'fashion event' our minds immediately conjure images of models putting ramps on fine. However, there is more to it than that and it is key that dialogues and discussions on the varied aspects of fashion are held regularly which would give the industry the much needed boost.

Project Fashionscape, an initiative of Ice Today - one of the most reputed lifestyle magazines in the country - is a platform where experts and enthusiasts come together to discuss relevant issues. 

On 23 January, 2016 Ice Today organised the second Project Fashionscape meet-up. The programme was held at Lucknow Restaurant.  

Speakers of the event were Daraz Asia Fashion Category Manager - Florencia Tonoli, Head of Marketing Bangladesh and Myanmar - Sumit Jasoria and President of Fashion Design Council of Bangladesh - Maheen Khan. They were accompanied by a crowd connected to the fashion industry somehow or the other - from fashion bloggers to designers and journalists. 

The discussion started off with Tonoli's presentation on e-commerce and fashion, explaining the myriad benefits of buying and selling fashion products online. She also commented on the growing popularity of online shopping and debunking a few common myths. 

"People sometimes say that shopping in the virtual world does not see much social interaction. However, this is not completely true," she claimed. "With social media and blogs, and various forums, there're a lot of interactions that happen." 

The next speaker was Maheen Khan, who reminded the Bangladeshi designers to come forward to promote our 'deshi' weaves. "The whole world is looking for products that make a difference in people's lives," she commented. "There is a high end-market for products that are eco-friendly, those that have a story behind it and those that are indigenous and hand-woven."

Finally, Sumit Jasoria pointed out that despite the fact that the local fabrics are of extremely high quality and value, we need to promote and brand them properly. 

From modern digital media to the traditional weaves, Project Fashionscape has brought together the varied aspects of the fashion industry on one platform.  

By M H Haider