Fashion through his hands

Samu Cabe grew up experiencing all the difficulties of life,but fashion was a passion he developed as a young boy, and something he wanted to be part of in life. Raised in a family of six siblings, Cabe pursued his dreams for fashion straight after high school, despite the challenges he faced.

Today he is regarded as one of Suva ‘s most talented and established designers, showcasing his pieces in fashion shows throughout Fiji and in other parts of the Pacific as well. These include being a feature attraction at the Melanesian Arts Festival a few years ago, and a featured designer at last year’s Fiji Fashion week. Over the last two decades he has won prominent awards such as Craft Person of the year in 2004 and the National Bra Art competition last year.

Cabe crafts most of his designs with his bare hands and his skills encompass hand paintings, clothing, household items, banners and jewelry. Cabe’s art and dedication to clothing and accessories stem from the cultural and social influences he has grown up with. According to Cabe, his creations are inspired from the land and people of Fiji, the bright and rich colors, and the multiracial society.

In November last year, his work was written about in the New York Times newspaper, alongside some of the world’s eminent fashion designers. Choosing a career in designing has been fraught with obstacles for Cabe. It is not easy to earn a living from contemporary jewelry and clothes. “The hard thing is to promote and market your talent,” says Cabe.

Even though he started his art career twenty years ago, he is able to tap into the fashion trends of today that appeals to all age groups. Cabe is planning to take his work overseas. “My future plan is to go bigger, on a wider scale and promote my work abroad.” His designs are featured over the next few pages.