One of Samoa’s top fashion houses, MENA, celebrated yet another milestone on Thursday night.

The occasion was the official launch of MENA’s new Koko Kaftan line, held at the Orator Hotel.

But what exactly is a kaftan?

Originating in the Middle East, the light coat-like piece was first worn in ancient Mesopotamian times but with the evolution of the style, it has taken on different modern designs and looks.

But with a new Pacific flair to it, MENA has created what many may call a ‘masterpiece’ which will be a thing of desire for women all over Samoa and soon, the world.

Priding itself with its soft, light elegant feel, the Koko Kaftan will not only be suitable for the warm climates of Samoa, but its stylish look will give the wearer that bright island beauty appearance that will leave the men drooling.

MENA’s Jackie Loheni said the new range is an exciting time for the company.

“The Koko Kaftan line is something new for MENA,” she said.

“We thought it would be nice to launch it somewhere nice and we are happy that Orator Hotel has come on board; they are big supporters of MENA.

“We also have Peata’s salon and J.P.C Jacqui’s beauty creation make up on board as well as the Ozki boys all coming to support something new for Samoa.”

According to Jackie, the Koko Kaftan is a style that will not only look elegant but it will also be comfortable which isn’t a common mix in the world of fashion.

“The Koko Kaftan is something loose and lacy, when people think Kaftan they think loose and lacy outfits,” she said.

“So we wanted to create something with a Pacific flare, something elegant and something that can be worn by every woman.

“So that’s what we’ve done; it’s comfortable, lacy and very elegant and feminine.

“Apart from it looking really good, the fabric is very light and will be especially good for Samoa’s humid weather; the women will love it.”

Although MENA recently launched the Koko Kaftan in Auckland, the joy of launching it for her Samoan people is indescribable for Jackie.

She also revealed that MENA has plans to launch it abroad to share the new Kaftan style with the world.

“Because we have just launched this in our last fashion show in Auckland; I see this as one of our staple pieces in our MENA collection and I’m so excited,” she said.

“We will also be launching it in Pago and we are just really excited to take it abroad to the international market and see where we go from there.”

At the end of the night, Jackie had nothing but gratitude for everyone who helped put together the launch.

“I would just like to thank the sponsors for this launch,” she said.

“I am also very grateful for the models, we have these beautiful girls who have come in with so much excitement to be here; I will also like to thank our people because without them then we won’t be here.

“Lastly, I would like to thank my family for their support, especially Mom.”