Publications
Partners
Mzansi’s queen of print, Sandi Mazibuko, has been expanding her fashion brand FabroSanz Creations all the way to the runways of Milan and Paris. She recently showcased her Spring/Summer 2019 collection at the famous Oxford event and spoke to us a few days before. “The response was overwhelming as we showcased an African print that is proudly South African in Milan, which you don’t see often. We are so happy and excited for the future, as this means our plan of exporting is fast becoming a reality.”
Innovative Mazibuko, who created this exclusive Nguni range for the fashion weeks, says FabroSanz Creations has a new narrative that it wants to share with the world. “The development of this print was inspired by different cultures found in the country and the end product blended so beautifully. Not only did we get inspired, but we realised the print also represents South Africa because all the colours are found in the national flag.
“We have always loved working with prints and bold colours and have been doing African print for a while. We felt we needed a change – creating something fresh, something we can call our own, not prints from other African countries, especially for such an opportunity.”
Mazibuko says it would not have made sense to introduce her fashion house to the world by reflecting European fashion at them. “We are in a era when everyone is looking to Africa for inspiration. This is an opportunity for us to tell our stories, show the world our interpretation of our culture, and present it in a way that is functional for everyday wear. FabroSanz is a ready-to-wear brand, so our choice of textile for this collection was key. We wanted ladies to see themselves wearing this on an everyday basis.”
The colourful circle shapes on the print were inspired by three African cultures – Zulu, Ndebele and Xhosa. “The Zulus are a group of people who express their tradition with explosive, loud colours and beadwork that has beautiful shapes. The circular inspiration on the design is extracted from the over the top earrings and Iyi’Qolo [Zulu hats] that the ladies wear with flair and boldness.”
“Ndebele people are also known for their non-filter when it comes to colour. They beautifully represent this by the artwork on their homes. Over the years this geometry has made its way to the South African fashion world.”
And last but not least: “The Xhosa culture is quite simple and minimalistic, known for bold black lines on solid colours, with white being the most recognisable canvas for the artwork.”
- Visit houseoffabrosanz.com to shop
