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.

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.