Marize Malan takes first prize at new Elle Magazine Talent Competition

It's that time of the year again when Mzansi fashion designers showcase their latest season collections. The Sandton Convention Centre is full of fashionistas, celebrities, exhibitors, media and the general public who have travelled from here and afar to witness what fashion designers think should be on our wardrobes for this season.

The first show that I've just seen at the Sanlam South African Fashion Week is the Elle Magazine New Talent competition, sponsored by Mr. Price, where 7 finalists were vying for the coveted title as the new designer everybody should watch out for next year. The designer who came out tops is Capetonian Marize Malan, who walked away, in addition to the title, with a year-long internship with Mr. Price, a chance to showcase her collection at next year's Sanlam SA Fashion Week (comprising of a R5000 start-up fund), as well as a feature on the pages of the fashion magazine Elle.

As for the clothes, I was not really impressed. Although there were a few items from each of the collections that looked good, it wasn't instantly eye-grabbing and deserving of the wow-factor. I noticed that leggings, whether torn or not, were the order of the day in almost all the collection. The creativity was visible, but the execution of the designs seemed sub-par, at the most. Let's hope the next show, by Black Coffee, makes up for it.

True Love All A Woman Needs day is upon us again

It's all systems go for this year's TRUE LOVE All A Woman Needs Day, where beauty, fashion, music and much more will be the order of the day as the women's beloved magazine stage their 2009 edition of the successful ladies' extravaganza.

Get to Computicket now and book your tickets for the TRUE LOVE All A Woman Needs Day in Association with OLD MUTUAL, on 2 May 2009, at the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg.

Following its smashing success of the 2008 All A Woman Needs Day, TRUE LOVE magazine will be hosting yet another vibrant extravaganza of beauty, fashion and pampering! “This event was conceptualised by our TRUE LOVE team as a way to say thank you to our loyal followers and to welcome our new readers to the fold,” says Dorah Sithole, TRUE LOVE editor. “The day is an opportunity for readers to experience the magazine face-to-face, to interact with the lifestyle, the products and the TRUE LOVE team. The magazine will literally come alive for a day,” she adds.

This special day is going to astound, amaze and exhilarate all who attend!

For more information on this unique and exclusive experience, head on to YEAHBO.DOT.NET.

An introspective tour through the Darkie factory

When I was in Cape Town last week I had a pleasure of touring the factory where all the Darkie magic is created. Operations Manager and model Thokozani Shezi, affectionately known as TK, had been calling me to come and check out where it all happens and eventually I got some time to brace them, with my camera in tow.

As soon as I arrived in the area of Woodstock, where Friski Clothing (trading as Darkie Clothing) is located, the sounds and smells of the industrial factories thickly lingered in the air. This was a clear sign that I had arrived where the melting pot is constantly atop the manufacturing fires. TK led me up 3 stories in a rather deserted building from the outside (I think testimony that everybody is busy sweating on the inside).

Upon entering the premises, I was instantly attracted to the huge room full of machinery, piles of fabrics and patterns, and a handful of workers busy doing their thing. I began snapping away at the workers and their tools. I chatted briefly to a few of them, who showed much enthusiasm that they had a visitor set to learn and show a glimpse of their hard work to the masses out there, not that it's not visible from the amazing clothing they produce for Darkie's two exclusive concept shops in Mzansi and many others around the world.

Leading me to the adjacent storeroom and the offices where the administration and other parts of the business are run, TK couldn't sway me away from two mannequins displaying 2 finished products right before the entrance to the reception area of the offices. I quickly snapped away, with no clue what was instore for me inside. When I entered the storeroom, I didn't know which garments to photograph first as a bevy of clothes hung across the rooms, laying on cabinets and against the walls, alongside their respective brown paper patterns. From trendy casual wear for both ladies and men, to the more sophisticated designs, it was a feat for every fashionista.

I intermittently snapped, in between my enquiries to TK and the information he shared about the clothes and the vigoruous processes they embark on each and every day to ensure that the consumer is satisfied with a Darkie design/outfit. He also showed me their corporate lines, the up-beat re-design they did for the Moroka Swallows soccer jersey, as well as funky look they upgraded for Nandos waitressing staff, amongst others. Just opposite those designs is the office with an assortment of memorabilia (including fashion magazines, books, paintings, pictures, etc), where Themba Mngomezulu (head designer for Darkie sits and plans his quest to create an already formidable and successful clothing empire).

Just below that room is where TK spends most of his time navigating the intricancies of the business where a laptop, printer, fax machine and 2 beautiful mustard cotton seaters lay. Because I was busy working on the Cadillac Rercords premiere to be attended by cast member Mos Def at the time, TK also gave me freedom to make use of these services. Oh, it was Themba's birthday but he was away in Switzerland. As he chatted to TK via facebook, making sure everything was going accordingly back home, I sneaked in a birthday message to him.

Thanks for the tour TK, it was well worth it. It was a surprising revelation about the magnitude of work involved in the creation of such fresh, trendy and extremely wearable designs. Thanks to the machinists and pattern makers for their warm and kind hearts. Thanks also to the lady that works at the Darkie shop on Long Street, she was very friendly when we went there later on; which by the way is a different atmosphere altogether when you see the finished products on display for consumption. If any one can remember, I went to the shop around the same time last year and took pictures and wrote a short piece about my experience there. Check it out HERE.

At the end of my trip, TK hooked me up with a dope maroonish long-sleeve shirt with bold black stitching and a grey cotton pants with hints of maroon streaks, which I'll be doning soon. Thanks again TK for everything. Themba, I appreciate your vision and your outstanding contribution to the fashion industry, and for constantly hooking me up with dope threads, :-).

Please go to YEAHBO.DOT.NET to see more pictures.

Darkie clothing prices slashed by 50%!!!

A week or two ago I published a post about the Darkie shops, both in Cape Town and Jozi having their season-end sales. They have taken it further, you can get everything you see in store now at a whooping 50% off. That means that you only pay half-price on each and every item of clothing you see in the store. I do have an impeccable two-piece fitted suit in mind that I want to get my hands on, come Friday.

The Darkie shops are located in Kloof Street in Cape Town and on 7th Street in Melville in Jozi. This is one fashion sale you don't want to miss out on. The exclusive pieces that Darkie designs, which by the way are never repeated, are going for extremely low prices to make way for a new colection that will hit the stores up very soon. Be on the look out.

Oh, and if you get there and buy an item, you can revel with other shoppers at an intimate party where you choose what you want to drink. If you don't have any plans for Friday night, the Darkie shop at Melville will be the place to be.

Get your stylish Darkie gear at discounted prices

My boy Ayanda, who looks after the Darkie concept shop in Melville has just informed me that the season-end sale starts this coming Friday. You know we are close to the end of summer and preparing for the colder season, so we gotta clear the stock and make sure we have the winter collections available at the store.

Everything that you will find in the shop, is selling at 25% less. That's a bargain, even more so since the prices are already reasonable and affordable. Don't miss out on this opportunity. It's your chance to be seen donned in the utterly stylish and exclusive Darkie gear that is never, and I repeat, never repeated. Check out the above pic for some of the Darkie menswear that will be on sale.

The 25% Off Sale begins this coming Friday, 27 February 2009, until the stock is all sold. The Darkie concept shop is located on 7th Street in Melville, just next to Nunos restaurant. When you get there, tell them I gave you the tip. Also, for the Capetonians, the same sale started in the Darkie concept shop in Kloof Street in Cape Town this past Monday. Happy shopping!!!

Audi Joburg Fashion Week Series: A bevy of talent for Audi Collection Finale

Beginning with an awesome gymnastic routine, the Audi Collection closed the Audi Joburg Fashion Week with a bang. With designers like Gavin Rajah, Hilton Weiner, Heni, kluk CGDT and Craig Port joining forces, it was an amazing assortment of backgrounds and talent. The models strutted their stuff to the electric sounds of a live purcussion band. As the guys beat the drums, the models showcased what the above designers have gleefully cooked for this fashion season.

The first designer to show his collection was Gavin Rajah, giving us a glimpse into what he did for Paris Fashion Week not too long ago. Gavin Rajah is always on point with his world-class designs. Reatining his signature colour pallette use, he once again showed us why he is one of the best in the world.

Craig Port's men's collection was awesome, with really smart and explicit designs. I particularly loved one of the ensembles that featured a pants, shirt, waist-coat and a jacket (see second model on the right on the second picture). The use of simple, yet unique and creative designs proved successful for the Cape Town-based designer.

Also doing a great job was Hilton Weiner. Hilton Weiner are anynymous with their vast use of linen. The soft and subtle fabric was once again the main feature in the collection that was fresh and crisp. The use of sandals, even for a full 2 to 3-piece attires gave the collection an extra urge and sense of fashion-forwardness.

As for Heni, he used a lot of reds and blacks in his collection. Some of the garments were a bit weird, but the creativity side of his designs is certainly appreciated by the fashion world. The accessories also gave his clothes an exra oomph.

Last, but certainly not least, is kluk CGDT. Their women's evening were consistet of very feminine and smooth evening wear. With simple cuts and soft fabrics, I believe it's every women's dream to be seen donning one of their creations.

That was it for Audi Joburg Fashion Week for 2009. I'm looking forward to what the other Fashion Week series will bring us later in the year. Gotta go to the after-party and have fun now.

Audi Joburg Fashion Week Series: Marie Bishara in a league of her own

Today was the forth and final day of Audi Joburg Fashion Week 2009. I wanted to see Thula Sindi's progressiveness but didn't realise that his show was the first one for the night, therefore missed it. I'm not complaining though as I thoroughy enjoyed seeing Egyptian Marie Bishara's outstanding piece of work.

Her traditional Egyptian elements were present in her collection, but she added a certain level of sophistication, class and style on most of the garments that made her show stand out from other female designers. From day wear (mostly complemented by crocodile sandals) to cocktail/evening wear, it was absolutely stunning. Her clean-cut designs and attention to detail make for a top-notch fashion designer. The collection exudes her flair for fashion in every way possible.

It seems designers like Gavin Rajah have some tight competition from this Egyptian threadsmith. Not only is her understanding for womenwear up there, but the professionalism could be seen through the show with how she dressed the models.

Audi Joburg Fashion Week Series: David Tlale tones it down a bit

He's been known to go to the extremes when it comes to creativity in fashion, but David Tlale tones it down in his latest collection. I guess many people were highly anticipating to see what the edgy, trendy and creative mind would put out this time. Last night there was a difference in his approach to creativity, slightly toning down from the somewhat weird clothing he has done before.

David Tlale seems to understand his art, especially when it comes to women's clothing. The dresses, the ladies' pants, the skirts, and the ladies' shirts were all done in precise cuts and phenomenal abstract designs. Spotting similar designs he had done before was a bit of a letdown, although he put a nice twist into them.

The guys clothing was marginally great and creative, although he tapped into his over-creative mind, again resulting in rather weird designs at times. The case in point in this reagrd would be the MC Hammer-style of pants that dominated the men's clollection. Although you could see where his head was, it's just not imaginable that a guy would wear those type of pants in real life, but again, you will never know.

David Tlale used a lot of metallics in his collection, including silvers, golds and bronzes. I noticed a great use of tweed as well, for pants and jackets (coats). The classic checkered fabric was also a huge feature in the clothing. Overall, the collection was good. It contained a lot of well-done garments and cordination was perfect. The blending of African beading accessories, even the shoes, gave it an added edge and spunk.

Audi Joburg Fashion Week Series: Abigail Keats knows how to do wearable

Last night I attended my second day at Audi Joburg Fashion Week with every intention to see what Abigail Keats was going to pull out of her sleeve this time, after very successful shows in the past. And to say I was satisfied would be putting it mildly, it was absolutely refreshing. Fashion is about trends, but those trends need to be translated into what the consumer should instantly take a liking into. And Abigail accomplished just that with her autumn/winter collection.

Her show was combined with another designer, Suzaan Heynes, whose creativity was appreciated, but the execution not done very well. There were some numbers that stood out, but some of the garments looked rather odd.

On the other hand, Abigail Keats did a sterling job in creating garments that are fashion-forward and creative, yet wearable and simple. The details were clean and unique. Although she also played with a lot blacks and greys, there was a hint of innovation in how these were mixed with silver trimmings and the right kind of accessories. Again, we saw the darker denim colours, including black and dark navy blues.

I really enjoyed the what Abigail had to offer. Fresh ideas, coupled with simplicity and a touch of edge.

Audi Joburg Fashion Week Series: Fabiani takes it back to the old classics

My second show for the night, which just ended a few minutes ago, was Fabiani's trailblazing interpretation of the latest in menswear. Beginning with classic grey 2-piece suits donned with well-cordinated shirts and matching shoes, the tempo changed to more modern cuts and designs, but maintaining that polished and sophisticated look.

The brilliant tailoring, blended with immaculate craftsmanship and attention to detail, the Fabiani show set a standard for what men should look like this season. The assortment of accessories ranging from ties, to man-bags, to bowties, to cravats, all in bright and friendly colours, accentuated the different looks.

Also quite trendy and fresh, was the update of an old jeans and blazer combo to one that used darker tones of the denim. This worked perfectly well, especially with the skinny jeans. In addition, I found quite dazzling the pairing of pants, long-sleeve shirts and different designs of cardigan jerseys. This is definitely a look that won't fade away easily, as it has been around for a few years now.

Fabiani designers really understand how meticulously sophisticated and classy men need to look, not just to make a statement, but to show their female counterparts that fashion is not only understood by them. Like I've said, the classic look and taste was the order of the day, or rather night, in this latest Fabiani collection. From the different shades of greys, to the blacks, to the pint-stripes; it's all about comfortability, confidence and class.

Audi Joburg Fashion Week continues until Saturday, 24th January 2009 at Sandton Convention Centre.

Audi Joburg Fashion Week Series: Leigh Schubert with a fresh look

Over the past week we featured profiles of a few designers showcasing their latest collections at the Audi Joburg Fashion Week. The event has started and I just witnessed my first show this evening. This is actually my first attendance of any event this year. It's off to a good start I must say.

The first show I attended a few minjutes ago was Leigh Schubert, an amazingly talented designer from Durban. Over the years I've grown a likeliness of her designs and creations, perhaps mostly because there was a strong presence of different linen fabrics. This time she has switched things up, completely abandoning that signature of hers and experimenting with different types of fabrics including satins, lace andn even shimmery threads.

Leigh has also dumped the very earthy colours and explored with mixtures of powder pinks, banana yellows, and a variation of silver and bronze metallics. What I also noticed was that there was a strong presence of ankle-length tights worn with short dresses.

Overall, although I liked what she had done for the past seasons more, this wasn't totally out of the radar. She should be applauded for getting out of her comfort zone and experiemneting with fresh ideas.

Get to know the designer at Audi Joburg Fashion Week : Part 2 - Ifeoma Ayanwu

Our final part of the Audi Joburg Fashion Week designer profile feature looks at the achievements and aspirations of one of Nigeria's groundbreaking female designers, Ifeoma Ayanwu, who designs for her clothing label called Ogodor. Here is her story:

The name Ogodor is fast becoming a household name in Abuja. For those who are not yet acquainted with the name directly would have encountered the beauty, creativity and ingenuity associated with it.

Ogodor is the fashion brand that has taken over the Abuja fashion circuit like wildfire. It is presently a must for all celebrities and happening people in Abuja to have an Ogodor design or accessories in their wardrobe.

According to an Abuja celebrity, who prefers to remain anonymous, “When I receive a special invitation to any function, all that comes to her head is Ogodor”. She adds, “they have perfected the act of dressing you uniquely and you definitely stand out from the crowd”.

Ogodor is owned by Ifeama Ayanwu; a graduate from the University of Jos who has been in the fashion industry for about 10 years but officially launched the Ogodor brand four 4 years ago.

She says the name Ogodor comes from an ancient Igbo word which translate to mean good quality fabric. “We adopted Ogodor because our intention is to project a true Nigerian brand due to our strong belief in Nigeria as one of the best things that has happened to the world”.

Lagos had a feel of her designs is 2006 when she was invited to participate in the Nigeria fashion show. Due to her very enviable and breath taking collections, she was invited back to Lagos to clothe the models at the Nigeria Model Awards in 2006.

Apart from staging her personal show, she has participated in lots of local and international fashion shows, exhibitions and workshops.

Details:

Address - Ogodor
Inside Ascon Filling Station, opposite Chicken House,
Wuse 2 Abuja, Nigeria.
ifyogodor@yahoo.com.

If you want to see what the fuss is all about, get to the Audi Joburg Fashion Week next week, from 21 to 24 January 2009, where Ogodor will exhibit and showcase their latest collection.

Get to know the designer at Audi Joburg Fashion Week : Part 2 - Tarien Malherbe

Next on our designer profile feature is Mother City's young, creative and skillful Tarien Malherbe. Here is what she is about:

Surname: Malherbe
Name: Tarien
Date of birth: 13-03-1986
Age: 22
Citizenship: South African
Language: Afrikaans/English
Preferred language: Afrikaans
Sex: Female
Website: www.non-european.co.za
Email: tarien@non-european.co.za / non-european@elizabethgalloway.co.za
Tel: Office: 021-880-0775. Fax: 021-880-0066
Mobile: Press - Gideon: 082-853-9368. Sales – Martin: 074-100-5869. Designer – Tarien: 084-206-5887
Qualification: Higher Professional Diploma in Creative Arts – Fashion, Elizabeth Galloway Academy of Fashion Design, Stellenbosch, 2005-2007

National N3 subject certificate in Small Business management & Entrepreneurship, Tygerberg College, Cape Town, 2004
Religion: Christian
Hobbies: anything to do with being outdoors / spending time with people / being creative

Tertiary Education

Matric: National Senior Certificate with University Exemption (passed with distinction); Montagu High School

Subjects (all HG): Afrikaans First Language A; English First Language B; Mathematics A; Science A; Biology A; Accounting A

Received academic honours 2000-2004

Graduated top of my class -2004

Achievements – fashion design

* Third place in NCPC South Africa’s Environmentally Friendly Design Competition 2007
* Winner of the Most Innovative Design Award - 13th Annual Old Mutual Vukani Fashion Awards 2007

· First Place in the Fashion Eye Competition - Pursuit magazine 2007

· Exhibited a hat at South African Fashion Week – awarded fourth place in the competition 2005

Exhibitions and Fashion Shows

2008

* Exhibited at Cape Town Fashion week as NON-EUROEAN by tarien malherbe (education range)
* Showed at Durban fashion week as MAYLEAF by tarien malherbe (scarcity range)
* Took part in Cape Town Fashion Festival as MAYLEAF by tarien malherbe (scarcity range)
* Showed at Vukani fashion show as MAYLEAF by tarien malherbe (scarcity range)

2007

· Showed at Durban Fashion week as TARIEN MALHERBE (Vukani collection)

· Showed at Cape Town Fashion week as TARIEN MALHERBE (BoetnSaartjie Range & Vukani collection)

· Showed at Vukani Fashion show as TARIEN MALHERBE (vukani collection)2

· Showed at Elizabeth Galloway graduate fashion show as TARIEN MALHERBE (boetnsaartjie collection)

· Invited to take part in the Tygerberg Fashion Expo - a fundraising event for the Tygerberg Children’s hospital

2006

· Invited to take part in Cape Renal Association Annual Charity Fashion Show in Franschoek - a fundraising event for people suffering from kidney disease

2005

· Invited to create fashion from flowers and plants and to show the dress at the Robertson Floral Fashion Show

· Exhibited a hat at South African Fashion Week – awarded fourth place in the competition


Design focus

Tarien Malherbe is a South African designer who creates evolutionary heritage based designs that has an international appeal. She currently designs under the label ‘NON EUROPEAN’ focusing on male and female formal daywear/streetwear.

The label, Non-European, is another way of saying 'Proudly South African' using the language of our previous government - this time to empower and communicate.

Inspiration for this range

This Non-European collection draws on the local education system as a reference point for expressing individual style within the confines of a uniform. The youth of SA have always reinterpreted and challenged their school uniforms, no matter which part of the education system they were in, and this range gives a voice to these ideas.

Design Philosophy

The Non-European brand has an outward focus that aims to empower individuals by creating sustainable job opportunities that utilizes people’s traditional skills and talents.

I love people and I have a heart for the poor or suffering. My greatest joy is to contribute to such people’s lives and to see them grow and prosper. I know my design talent empowers me to make change to individual’s lives on various levels. I therefore enjoy working in the fashion and clothing industry because it is a powerful tool to influence society for the better.

Get to know the designer at Audi Joburg Fashion Week : Part 1 - Thula Sindi

Following on the post about the Audi Joburg Fashion Week published yesterday, we decided to feature profiles of some of the talented designers that will be showcasing their latest collections next week, from 21 to 24 January 2008. The first profile is that of critically acclaimed and successful young designer, Thula Sindi. I witnessed his creativity and flair for fashion when I attended one of his shows at a Fashion Week event last year. Get to know him and his achievements a little bit more.

Thula Sindi matriculated (2001) from the National School of the Arts in Johannesburg and studied at LISOF (London International School of Fashion). His debut was as head designer at Dutch textile company Vlisco - the day after he graduated. He introduced Vlicso's fashion line with a show at South African Fashion Week in 2005, along with fellow designers Malcom Kluk and Palesa Mokubong.

In February 2006 Thula started developing his own range, which hit the runway at SAFW 2006 (a year in which he earned a semi-finalist spot at the Nederburg Rare Fashion Finds Contest). He was also nominated as a finalist in the Marie Claire emerging designer contest in 2007 and 2008.

Thula went on to show a successful collection during Couture Fashion Week in Paris with the assistance of SA Tourism and Dr Precious Moloi- Motsepe. This was followed up with a showing at both the Cape Town and Joburg Fashion Weeks. In November he was nominated as top 10 emerging designers in the FIMA: Afrque est la mode pan African fashion contest which was held in Niamey, Niger.

Thula's Winter 08 collection showcased at Audi Fashion Week in March to much critical acclaim and saw him taking the collection to Beijing, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Guangzong in early April of 2008 in association with the Department of Arts and Culture.

Thula showcased his recent collection in Luanda, Angola and in Lagos, Nigeria during the Nigeria's Next Super Model search in September.

Thula has created a special collection in association with Vlisco which was recently shown in Cotonou, Benin on 8 November 2008.

Thula also participated in Mozambique Fashion Week in December 08 and showed his collection in Addis Ababa in January 09.

Thula now produces his effortlessly elegant women's wear from his Rosebank Studio in JHB as well as designing at Gavin Rajah in Cape Town on a freelance basis. His ready to year collection is available from Gavin Rajah store in Cavendish, Cape Town.

The 25 year old designer dresses women on the move like Caprice, Noni Gasa, Busi Lurayi, Penny Lebyane, Bridget Masinga and Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe.

Contact Details

TEL: +27 828476137
EMAIL: thulasindi@gmail.com

Be sure not to miss out on his collections for next week at the Audi Joburg Fashion Week, where he'll be showing us what threads are hot for the season.

Designers display innovation and excellence at Audi Joburg Fashion Week 2009

Fashionistas throughout the world, that time has come again! Choosing to eschew a predictable path in the line-up for the third annual Audi Joburg Fashion Week, the premier autumn/winter collections are set to be the most exciting seen on a South African runway to date.

Some of the highest quality established designers, including Thula Sindi and Fabiani, are showing their autumn/winter collections this year. However, many of the collections are from the edgier and developing designers, ensuring that innovation and surprise is also firmly on the agenda.

Suzaan Heyns, Heni, Abigail Keats, Chimera and Stefania Morland have all established reputations for the unconventional and beautiful. David Tlale is seldom shy of drama as well as exquisite detailing. Artistic Soul is capable of redefining urban men’s wear. And of the debut collections, Tarien Malherbe has already developed quite a following among the fashion forward crowd, having tapped into trends well ahead of the usual curve.

Commenting on the line-up for Audi Joburg Fashion Week, Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe, chairperson of African Fashion International remarked, “It is our aim to ensure that both the global and local interest and commitment to South African fashion is kept at an all-time high. By providing a schedule that is innovative, exciting and of the highest quality, we are able to showcase South African design talent, comparable to any in the world.”

Taking place at Sandton Convention Centre over four days from 21 – 24 January 2009, this is the first time Audi Joburg Fashion Week has been scheduled to ensure that designers are able to get their collections in store, and in fashion magazines, for South Africa’s winter season.

Tickets to Audi Joburg Fashion Week are available from Computicket. For more information, full show schedules and highlights from previous winter collections go to www.audijoburgfashionweek.com.

Darkie clothing arrives in Jozi.

Over the years I have become a huge fan of the clothing line Darkie. Back when I started writing for YEAHBO.DOT.NET, the label head designer and creater Themba Mngomezulu was one of the first people I interviewed (check the interview HERE). This was way back when he was still based in Durban. The clothing label has gradually grown from strength to strength, rejuvenating itself with fresh and original ideas.

Fast forwarding to 2008. Earlier this year when I was in Cape Town for the annual Cape Town International Jazz Festival I got to hang out with one of my friends TK (see first picture with guy in brown pants above), who works very closely with Themba, at a Darkie shop on Long Street (read about the the encounter HERE). The shop has since moved to Kloof Street in a form of a new refurbished Darkie Concept shop. Whilst launching this shop, Themba reached out to me to help with his plans in branching out to Jozi as well. Being a great fan of his work, as well as a friend I took to the challenge which has seen an opening of a new Darkie shop this past Friday. The Jozi shop is located on 7th Street in Mellville. The opening of the shop last Friday was really dope. Of course I was there with a few other people that came through to celebrate one of Themba's milestones.

On our way from the airport last Friday, Themba told me that there are plans for Durban to get their own exclusive Darkie shop as well. So Durbanites, your own shop will be opening soon. Check out www.darkieclothing.co.za for details on that front. In the meantime, Jozi and Cape Town are basking in the enjoyment of shopping for exclusive pieces of clothing from the Darkie summer collections. You'll be bowled over by the quality of design and craftmanship that goes into each and every item.

Please also note that Themba is bringing back the Darkie Recycled clothing (example on the first photo) that made him popular when he began working on his passion for fashion design. Watch the space for this development and more details.

A taste of Italian style at Peroni’s Mamelodi and Soweto Italian Fairs

Italian beer brand Peroni is doing it big with fashion, iconic brands and lifestyle celebrated by Peroni in Tshwane this weekend. Get ready to enjoy the finer things, Italian style.

This October, Peroni Nastro Azzurro will bring Italian style to the streets of Tshwane. Peroni’s Italian Fair will showcase all things Italian style – from authentic Italian cuisine, lifestyle, design and Italian fashion.

Italian lifestyle activities include fashion shows featuring admired Italian labels, and Italian lifestyle exhibition, iconic Italian brands displays as well as an Italian chef that will be in attendance to demonstrate the fine art of Italian cooking, among others. Italian street cafés will also allow for the enjoyment of an ice cold Peroni. Salute! Paparazzi will capture moments of Italian style where the best dressed will be rewarded.

The Peroni Italian Fair will take place in Mamelodi, corner Tsweu and Mashabela streets, on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th October between 14h00 and 21h00. Do not miss out on the evening’s festivities at Jack Buddha.

Next week, 01 November 2008, the Peroni Italian Fair moves to Soweto, at the Freedom Square in Kliptown. Mzansi's townships are going Italian, thanks to Peroni.

Entry costs R50.

Finally, Andre 3000 launches his clothing label

We've been hearing about Andre Benjamin's (a.k.a Andre 3000) clothing label in the works for a while and this couldn't have been a better time to lauch his label called Benjamin Bixty. Fashion Rocks just took place last week, with music and fashion fundis combining for the spectacular event (I would like to hear the experiences from the winners that won the trip to this event at the Frockstar Party that was hosted by Virgin Mobile I attended early this year - check out YEAHBO.DOT.NET for pics I snapped from that event).

There is also a big buzz about the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week taking place in the U.S., from last Friday running through this week. Andre 3000 decided to premiere his Fall 08/Spring 09 collection at the fashion week kick off, and the show was hosted by none other than our very own Charlize Theron. The collection is inspired by 1930’s old college football documentaries. These pieces are really cool, something I would definitely wear.

Although I'm not going to be big on posting non-local news on this blog, I decided to feature Andre because I love his music, his acting and always admired his unique and eccentric style. Moreover, Charlize showed him some love and support too. For more pics, check out one of my favourite blogs CONCRETELOOP.