Fashion enthusiasts far and wide flocked to the Sandton City rooftop to see what our designers had in store at SA Fashion Week.
Although there were many seasoned designers – such as Gert-Johan Coetzee – who are more than capable of drawing a crowd, I found the daring newcomers and non-celebrity designers refreshing with their risky-runway looks.
I’m not particularly a fan of the Autumn/Winter season but these designers have me looking forward to recreating these styles.
Here are some notable designers to try:
Azaria Khoza’s The Breed
This collection was an experience with each look that came down the runway – one just as surprising as the next.
His use of accessories and matching unconventional fabrics caught my attention.
His designs are paired with a great understanding of the kind of person he envisions will wear his brand. The Breed is described as more than a fashion brand; it’s a movement for style-conscious individuals.
Lo’Ice by Loice Seekane
The perfect balance between sassy and sexy, this collection had an attitude. There were also elements of a regal nature about some of the unique pieces that could easily be wearable. The Soweto-born designer found inspiration in ancient African culture, spirituality and art, using the brand as a form of storytelling and preserving African culture. This was evident in the textiles, prints and bright colours used.
Essie by Enhle Mbali
Among the many titles that the actress and television personality holds, fashion designer came as a surprise when she collaborated with Quiteria & George to design Beyoncé’s iconic emerald green dress for the Global Citizen Festival last year.
At the fashion week it was Enhle’s collection that was the most memorable.
The styling spoke to a very young, edgy and fashion-forward audience in a way that lived up to its globetrotter and jetsetter description.
The collection was a bold and well-thought-out body of work that has me looking forward to many more collections from her.
Jacques Bam, The Bam Collective
This collection was carefree and witty.
Although polka dots aren’t my go-to style for the Autumn/Winter seasons, I still found that it was charming, playful and well executed.
Amanda Laird Cherry
This collection pushed the envelope when it came to tailoring and use of fabric. It was a very interesting take on Autumn/Winter and boasted pieces worn together or separately.