On the eve of the premiere of London Fashion Week 2012 the works of Trinbagonian fashion designers created a stir when the Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industries (TTCSI) presented at the Mayfair Hotel an event titled the Align Private Showcase.

Among the guests were members of the international media covering London Fashion Week, buyers from around the world, internationally recognised fashion consultants as well as music and entertainment industry executives.

Showcasing their work were Project Runway 2012 winner Anya Ayoung Chee, award winning couture designer Meiling and accessory designer Rachel Ross, all whom were reported to have received high praise for their respective works from everyone present.

Meiling presented a collection referred to as SS/13, which had an elegant urban edge to it, while Ayoung Chee shared a taste of Trinidad with her Carnival of Colour offering. Ross contributed her contemporary accessories featuring high-end Jewelry that reflected the culture and heritage of this nation in a unique style.

The three designers were all thrilled over the reception of their creations by the guests, some of them experiencing their very first taste of anything Trinbagonian. Meiling, although the veteran of the trio was especially moved and shared that she was truly moved by the experience, which was for her, "A dream come true to show my line to such an audience here in London. I want to thank the TTCSI and all the team for making this happen."

That team included luxury fashion consultant David Jones who has been a mentor for some of the world's biggest designers and developing fashion houses such as Matthew Williamson, Karen Millen and John Galliano.

Also working on the project was public relations, branding and design consultant, Sharon Louise Laurent. Hosting the event sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism was High Commissioner Garvin Nicholas, who commended the designers for what he said were excellent examples of only a small portion of the wealth of talent in T&T.

As London Fashion Week moves along Meiling, Ayoung Chee and Ross will be showcasing their works and meeting with buyers and other international fashion industry executives. London Fashion Week is one of the highest profile fashion events in the world and one of what is known as the big four international catwalk influencers. Fashion buyers from all over the world visit London at this time to select pieces for next season's racks in major stores.

The TTCSI will continue to work with these and other designers to follow up on the leads made at the showcase and ensure this initiative materialises in tangible business transactions. This initiative is one of the many projects being implemented by the TTCSI for the Development of a strong fashion industry in Trinidad and Tobago. Other projects include capacity building and business skills training for designers, development of standards for the industry, lobbying and representation through the Fashion Industry Development Committee, of which the organiation is the vice-chair.