Participants at the Bali Fashion Trend (BFT) 2024 expressed awe at the vibrancy of the annual event, with many pledging to return for future editions. The event, which concluded on Sunday night, September 29, 2024, at TS Suites Seminyak, left a lasting impression on both designers and attendees.

"I did not expect such a lively atmosphere with so many attendees. I’m thrilled and will definitely come again," said Nila Nasution, who showcased her special collection of traditional Medanese bridal kebaya. Speaking after the event’s closing ceremony, Nila shared how she is now inspired to expand her focus from bridal kebayas to creating more versatile wedding gowns suitable for daily wear. Her designs are already popular in Singapore and Australia.

The final day featured numerous models strutting down the runway in a wide array of fashion styles, leaving the enthusiastic audience captivated by the creativity on display.

"This is extraordinary. I’ve learned a lot here," Nila added. "I’ve always focused on wedding kebayas, but moving forward, I want to create wedding dresses that can also be worn casually."

A Platform for Global Reach

The three-day BFT 2024, which kicked off on Friday, September 27, showcased collections under the theme “Strive.” According to Dwi Iskandar, the event’s chairman, the theme encapsulated the perseverance, creativity, and passion of designers pushing the boundaries of fashion. A total of 61 designers from across Indonesia and abroad, including one from Malaysia, participated in the event.

Another BFT participant, Dewi Roesdji, was thrilled with the experience, noting that the event gave her valuable exposure and helped her designs reach a global audience. “I want my products to go more global. Right now, they’ve already reached the Russian market. I was surprised by the massive turnout at BFT. I’m excited to join again,” she said, adding that most of her designs sold out during the event.

Vera Kora’ag, a designer who has been a regular at BFT, emphasized her commitment to sustainability. Vera repurposes fabric remnants, which she says still have significant economic value and can help protect the environment by reducing waste. “I love working with endek fabric, and I don’t want fashion waste to turn into trash,” she said. Vera, who has been in the fashion industry for over a decade, stressed the importance of maintaining quality to stay competitive, especially against foreign products. “With quality, we can win the market,” she added, praising BFT’s growing success.

A Focus on Sustainability and Innovation

Iskandar highlighted that the theme "Strive" reflects the designers' drive to create visually stunning pieces while channeling their determination to achieve goals that were delayed or disrupted by the pandemic. "With the theme 'Strive,' we are pushing harder than ever, working together to produce better, more unique collections that highlight the designers' individual identities," he remarked.

Sustainability was also a key focus of the event. "We are becoming more conscious of sustainability. It's not just about creating beautiful designs, but also about preserving culture and protecting the environment. It’s about more than just profit," Iskandar emphasized.

Each day of the event featured two sessions, with 11 designers showcasing their latest collections in each. The three-day Bali Fashion Trend 2024 not only included runway shows but also hosted talk shows, field trips, and fashion exhibitions.

Spotlighting Cultural Heritage and Fashion's Future

The opening day's talk show centered on the traditional Geringsing weaving process. I Putu Suarjana, a cultural figure from the Tenganan Pegringsingan village, discussed the sacred nature of the Geringsing cloth, which is compulsory for village ceremonies. He noted that creating the cloth can take up to seven years, although modern techniques have sped up the process. Cultural expert Prof. Dr. I Made Bandem added that Geringsing is now recognized globally, with collections on display in countries like the United States, Australia, and Belgium. “During the G-20 summit, each head of state was gifted Geringsing cloth,” Bandem revealed, highlighting the international appreciation of the textile.

Dr. Weda Githa, viewing the cloth from a fashion perspective, emphasized its potential as a communication tool. "Fashion can be a medium for communication, and this cloth has significant potential moving forward," she said.

The BFT 2024, with its combination of cultural heritage and modern innovation, stands as a testament to Bali’s growing influence in the global fashion scene. The event not only celebrates creativity and perseverance but also fosters sustainability and respect for the environment, setting a new standard for fashion events in the region.