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Pabalelo Mashabela was hopeful and excited about the possibilities in local fashion and how she could contribute to it. Mashabela’s attention to detail and brilliant skillship are some of the things she’ll be greatly missed for. Before she died, her designs had broken through the worn-out disguise of the fashion industry, provoking incredible emotion on first sight, whether bad or good, but more often the latter if you were brave enough. Mashabela’s work gave an overwhelming sense that one had just witnessed and worn something truly extraordinary and special. It’s with mixed emotions that I finally have the courage to write about the conversation Mashabela and I had about her work shortly before her sudden death in May this year.
“I think my love for fashion comes from my grandma Makgomo Mashabela. She’s a very stylish lady. I grew up looking up to her and how she used to dress,” she said. “My late mom as well. Though my mom wasn’t into fashion as much.
“My grandma used to make clothes and then when I got into school, I could tell people recognised that I have a different style. So that’s when I was like oh, okay ... I have my own swag,” the bubbly Mashabela told City Press.
“My aesthetic changes a lot with how I feel, where I am in my life. I like very strong pieces that tell a story people can relate to. I’m not a very trendy person. If I like it, then yeah, maybe I’ll incorporate it into my design. What matters for me is the style. And if I make this thing today, can I wear it in 10 or 20 years’ time? I want my brand to have that legacy as well, like pieces which someone can say, I bought this in 2018 and I’m wearing it in 2025.”
Mashabela’s fashion dream was to contribute to saving and caring for the environment.
“I battle with the effect fast fashion has on the environment. I’m intrigued by the future of fashion and how we’re gonna have to incorporate technology. These days they are manufacturing sweatshirts that can tell your heart rate.”
She said passionately: “I want to make my own cotton. Have a back yard where I can pick my own cotton and make my own fabric. That’s the mentality we should be having.” May Mashabela’s soul rest in peace.
